Haslemere has paid tribute to one of its most enduring local heroes, marking Inspector William Donaldson Day and remembering the officer who became the first Surrey Constabulary officer to die in the line of duty.

The annual commemoration brought together civic leaders, Surrey Police representatives and descendants of Inspector Donaldson to honour his bravery and the sacrifice he made while serving the town.

The event was hosted by Kevin Morris and attended by Haslemere Mayor Cllr Jacquie Keen and Deputy Mayor Cllr Peter Nicholson, alongside Cllr Malcolm Carter, Rev Justin Manley-Cooper, Superintendent Adam Smith and members of the Ceremonial Association of Surrey Police.

Inspector Donaldson’s descendants, Henry, Jean Pelham and Jane Matthews, also joined the ceremony to remember his life and legacy.

Inspector Donaldson was stationed in Haslemere in 1855 when he was killed while attempting to restore order during what became known as the Haslemere Riot.

On July 29 that year, Donaldson and Constable James Freestone were called to the King’s Arms public house after a group of railway workers, known as navvies, refused to leave after closing time.

A man was arrested and taken to the town’s lock-up, but later that evening a crowd gathered demanding his release. During the unrest, Inspector Donaldson was attacked and struck on the head with an iron bar.

The 44-year-old officer was taken back to his home in Cow Street, now Petworth Road, but died from his injuries the following day.

He was buried at St Bartholomew’s Church and has since been remembered as the “Hero of Haslemere”.

Haslemere Town Council said: “We were proud to mark Inspector Donaldson Day, commemorating the legacy of a brave local hero. Thank you to everyone who joined us in remembering Inspector Donaldson’s enduring legacy.”