Inspector Peter Cooper joined Bob for his 100-year birthday celebration.
There was plenty to celebrate at the Rangiora RSA on Saturday as former police officer Robert (Bob) Wouldes marked his 100th birthday, sharing stories from a life spanning a century and a policing career that stretched more than three decades.
Canterbury Rural Area Commander Inspector Peter Cooper was there to join the celebrations.
Bob’s connection to Police goes back a long way. He first joined in 1952, training at Wellington South Depot before serving in Palmerston North and Christchurch.
During that first stint, he was selected as part of the security entourage for Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh during their Royal Tour.
After leaving Police in 1967 to try his hand at running a fish and chip shop, Bob soon realised it wasn’t for him.
Police warmly welcomed him back later that year and he remained in Police until retiring in 1986, spending much of that time in Christchurch.
Talking about the Royal Tour, Bob speaks warmly about his involvement.
“The Queen was such a lovely lady,” Bob says. “I really enjoyed meeting her.
“After that I was told I had to follow some band around called The Beatles. I didn't like them then and I still don’t like them now.”
Peter says it was a privilege to help mark the occasion.
"Meeting Bob was an absolute pleasure. One hundred years is a remarkable achievement, and his stories, humour and memories are incredible," Peter says.
“He enjoyed seeing the patrol car at his birthday celebration – he probably would have taken it for a spin if he hadn’t had to give up his licence about six months ago.
“Bob still has very fond memories of his time in Police. He remains very proud of his service and of the organisation he was part of.”
Happy 100th birthday, Bob.
Back row: William FLEMING, John CHILD, John TAYLOR, Robert REICHARDT, Donald DUNCAN, Rex MAJOR, Kevin BRIERLY, John COCKS, Charles POWELL. Second row: William ROBERTS, BRONSEN, Stanley WATERS, Basil JOHNSON, Leo McKEEFRY, Eric LAKIN, Moran ODILL, Robert WOULDES, Frederick RAGGETT. Front row: Ronald DOCKARY, Russell SYKES, Rex HAY, Sergeant WJ ROBERSTON, Kenneth MATHIE, John BONES, John O’CONNOR.