Mitcham Town Guard

In wartime it was important to supplement the existing police force, particularly as officers were called up for military service. An auxiliary force was required and local councils worked with the security forces to recruit special constables.

These men included veterans from previous wars. Some may have fought in the Boer Wars of 1899 - 1902.

Special constables carried out a range of duties, helping to guard water supplies and local industry, watch out for suspicious behaviour and to assist with certain air raid duties.