Wakefield street named after former police sergeant Tommy Butler

A police officer who helped to train hundreds of recruits in West Yorkshire was celebrated with the naming of a new street.
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Redrow’s new St John’s Mews development, off Westfield Road – which features a collection of new family homes – has been developed on what used to be West Yorkshire Police’s Bishopgarth training centre of excellence.

The late Tom Butler was an integral part of its success, where he was the drill instructor from 1973 until his retirement in 1984, helping hundreds of cadets and constables learn the art of drill. His inspirational impact was such that a lecture theatre at Bishopgarth was named after him.

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Tom’s wife Teresa was invited to officially open Butler Way and stood alongside her family as the national anthem rang out on the event, which was also attended by serving members of the police.

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Martin Jones, a police cadet when Tom joined the training staff and who helped organise the event, said: “He was an incredible man who had an amazing impact on so many.

“He was a father figure to many of us and his mere presence commanded the respect he deserved. We all owe him a debt of gratitude for helping us on our way not only in our service as police officers but in life.

“To be able to recognise his contribution through a ceremony and road named after him is an appropriate way to keep his legacy alive.”

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Teresa added: “We are very proud that Tom is being remembered in this way. The former Bishopgarth site holds very special memories for my family and Butler Way is a wonderful tribute.

“We would like to thank Redrow, Tom’s former recruits and all those connected with West Yorkshire Police for making this happen. We are very grateful.”