'ello 'ello 'ello...the bobby has been voted an English icon.

The police force, often called the 'bobby' after Sir Robert Peel who founded the London Metropolitan Police Force, have been in force since 1829. Although quite unpopular at first, they proved successful at cutting crime in London. By 1835 all cities in the UK were forming their own police forces.

The Metropolitan Police Service, or the MET as it is more commly known, is still responsible for the Greater London area, with the exception of the square mile of the City of London which is the responsibility of the City of London Police. When the MET was first formed 1,000 constables were employed - today there are over 33,000 officers!

The stamps below are from the 150th Anniversary of Metropolitan Police issue from September 1979.

Illustrations

Policeman on the Beat

Policeman directing Traffic

Mounted Policewoman

River Patrol Boat