Why OAP-CSO Lewis is still walking the beat... at the age of 71

Great Barr beat bobby Louis Martindale-Vale, has patrolled Erdington High Street for nine years and has been a regular sight over giving chase to the area's yobs.

While he could be putting his feet up for retirement, Louis is happier pounding the streets.

Thanks to his persistent policing and interaction with his ward, the crime rate has plummeted since he donned the high vis jacket and cap.

And although Erdington police station has plenty of tea and coffee in case Louis is parched while doing the rounds, he'd much rather hang out in the window of a local café – so he can keep a watchful eye on the patch.

According to Louis, he was suited to a career in policing, thanks to his 15 year stint in the Royal Navy as a Petty Officer in the Fleet Air Arm.

A keen boxer in his youth, Louis volunteered to go on shore patrols making sure his fellow seamen toed the line and reckons it laid the foundations for his lengthy public service.

Louis said: "I'll walk around 25 miles when I'm out on the beat, about the equivalent of a marathon – I've seen the pedometers before.

"Because I have been out on the beat for nine years, I know everyone in the area now and they know me.

"And when it comes to having a tea break, I'd much rather be in one of the cafes that I know and I can sit in the window and look out across my patch.

"I used to box in the Royal Navy and would also help out on the shore patrols so when it came to turning my hand to policing I felt like it was a natural extension.

"I've got no plans on hanging up my uniform anytime soon – I'm just as fit as the younger officers when it comes to the tests we have to take. They'll often say to me 'I hope I'm in as good shape at your age'.

"I've lost count of the number of suspects I've had to chase down over the years – I'm still quick enough on my feet though to catch them.

"When I first started on the beat, when I spotted a known shoplifter, I'd have to run up and down the high street ducking into the shops to let them know – these days, we've got radio so it's much easier on my feet."

Chief Superintendent Richard Moore, from West Midlands Police, paid tribute to the long-serving PCSO and said: "Louis is a leading member of our neighbourhood policing team in Erdington.

"He is known by all of the traders and community members who often call and ask for Louis personally.

"Louis defies his advancing years by electing to work during the busiest periods; making sure he is available when needed the most.

"He is an absolutely superb role model for others and an inspiration to anyone who wants to serve their community."