The ‘Sheriff of Leyland’ still plodding the streets at the age of 73

A Police Community Support Officer known as the Sheriff of Leyland has completed 20 years’ service for Lancashire Police.

Tony Wojnarowski joined the force following a 30-year career at Leyland Motors. After retiring from the vehicle manufacturer, Tony decided he wasn’t ready to stop working and applied for the role of PCSO.

When he started, Tony was mainly walking his beat and engaging with the community. Now aged 73, Tony’s role has evolved greatly, and today he assists with investigations, CCTV and safeguarding.

A South Ribble Police spokesperson said: “Tony is known for his passion for educating youths and attending schools to deliver crime prevention talks.

“Tony is a Scout leader and quite often former Scouts who are now older will come over and shake his hand to thank him, which is always nice to see.

“Interestingly, three of our colleagues were all young lads at college when he told them off in separate incidents in Worden Park, and now they work alongside him!”

Tony is of Polish heritage and assists officers with translation, which can often be the difference in helping victims build enough trust to report crime.

The spokesperson added: “Tony has done a sterling job for Lancashire Constabulary over his 20 years and to still be plodding the streets of Leyland at 73 years of age is a remarkable achievement in itself.

“Well done Tony – appreciated by all your colleagues. and I’m sure Leyland community appreciates your 20 years service also.”