they are invariably polite and respectful. Perhaps not supremely intelligent, but then why would an intelligent person choose such a profession? (I speak not of specialist officers such as Morse, Lewis and Hathaway, of course.)

One chap stopped me in my car recently, apologised profusely for doing so, but claimed that his 'system' told him that my car was uninsured. "Obviously," he said, "it must be a mistake," but he was obliged to check. When I reassured him that I did have the requisite insurance cover, he apologised once more and invited me to get on with my day.

As I drovbe off he saluted.

One suspects that if one is polite but firm when dealing with the constabulary, they, like dogs, understand their social position and treat one accordingly.