The Official Encyclopedia of Scotland Yard

by Martin Fido, Keith Skinner

Arranged in an accessible A-Z format, over 500 entries and 250 images cover every aspect of the Yard, past and present, from A Division to Z Wagon, showing how the methods and nature of policing have evolved dramatically since Sir Robert Peel founded the Metropolitan Police in 1829.
Historical entries cover a wide range of the infamous criminals who have featured large in the Yard's history, the strikes, riots, disasters and sieges that have tested the force, and the methods and equipment used over the years to respond to the changing demands of society.
Detailed entries profile the activities of key parts of the organization, including the Flying Squad, Special Branch and the Firearms Unit, illustrated with archive images and full colour photographs of officers in action. Alongside entries tackling current issues and policies, including racism and corruption within the force, the techniques and structures of the modern Metropolitan Police are clearly outlined, providing a unique view of the workings of a constantly changing Service.

298 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1999

Reviews

[T.G. Campbell]

This book was actually recommended to me by the (very patient) fellows at the Metropolitan Police Heritage Centre in London when I visited to do some background research for my book. I have to say that I go back to this book again and again whenever I have a burning question about the Yard. Highly recommend for anyone who is writing crime fiction or just enjoys reading out true crime/history of the Met.