Perth’s first ever female police officer was a guest of honour at last week’s passing out parade at the Scottish Police College in Tulliallan.
Ninety-five-year-old Minnie Clark (nee McLaren) joined Perth City Police in April 1942.
However, she had to leave three years later in November 1945, because she got married.
At the time, police regulations would not permit married women to keep serving.
Her duties during her policing career included being on patrol, office duties and ‘female and child’ enquiries.
Minnie met with ACC Angela McLaren, who presented her with a framed copy of her police personnel record.
Minnie said: “Times have changed. There was no drug crime then, it was mostly alcohol related, theft or breach of the peace.
“I wish all the new recruits good health and hope they enjoy their police service. It is a very rewarding occupation, though it can be rather dangerous.”
ACC McLaren said: “It was a privilege to meet Minnie and hear about her experiences of being a police officer. Luckily, the women passing out today can look forward to a much longer and fairer career than Minnie was given the opportunity to have.
“It’s been an honour to have Minnie at the passing out parade, women like Minnie absolutely helped pave the way for female police officers today.”
Minnie took her place next to inspecting officer DCC Malcolm Graham for the march past of 201 officers.
