Former West Mercia Police Chief Constable dies aged 82

David Blakey had a 35 year career in policing before his retirement in 1999

Author: Lizzie CouttsPublished 24th Jun 2026

West Mercia Police have announced the death of former Chief Constable David Blakey at the age of 82.

The force say Mr Blakey passed away on Thursday 11 June.

He served as West Mercia Police Chief Constable from 1991 until his retirement in 1999 and has a 35 year career in policing.

Blakey began his career in 1960 with Durham County Constabulary, before becoming Superintendent and transferring on promotion to Northumbria Police, West Mercia Police and Leicestershire Police before returning to West Mercia Police as Chief Constable.

After his retirement Mr Blakey served as Inspector with Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary from 1999 to 2004 and held the position of Deputy Lieutenant of Worcestershire from 1999 to 2018.

In 1993, he was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal and was made Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1998.

West Mercia Police say their thoughts and condolences are with Mr Blakey's friends and family.

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