When news of Bill Rice’s death was announced in March 2022, the response from across Beverley was immediate and heartfelt. “The best copper Beverley ever had”, “a proper bobby that people listened to”, “a true gentleman”, “a gentle giant” — the tributes spoke for themselves. Though Bill would remind people he was born in Ferriby and not technically a Beverlonian, to generations in the town he became one of its most familiar and most respected figures.
For more than fifty years, Bill was a constant presence in Beverley, first as a police constable and later as one of its most dedicated community volunteers. He was instantly recognisable — tall, broad, with his trademark moustache — but it was his manner that left the deeper impression. Firm when needed, but always fair. Approachable. Steady. Kind.
Born in 1931, William Albert Rice was the son of a postman. He left school at 14 to work as a butcher before completing two years of National Service. In 1951 he joined the police force, serving first in Hessle and Beeford. He arrived in Beverley in 1962 with his wife Joy and their children, Gillian and Nigel.
Policing was very different in those days. In later interviews, Bill reflected on a time when an officer’s presence alone often carried authority. He was frequently stationed in Saturday Market at closing time, dealing more with high spirits and minor misdemeanours than the serious incidents modern officers face. He knew people by name. And they knew him.
Retirement from the police in 1977 did not mean stepping back from public life. Bill worked in the family business alongside his son and continued serving the town in other ways. For more than twenty-five years he acted as Beverley’s town crier, his voice ringing out at civic events and celebrations. Each year he delighted crowds by riding his penny farthing at the Lions Carnival. His commitment to local causes stretched across four decades.
Recognition followed. In 1998 he received the East Riding Council Chairman’s Award for services to the community. In 2013 he was made an honorary freeman of Beverley, a rare honour reflecting the esteem in which he was held. He was described at the time as “a giant of a man in many ways”, someone who gave his time generously and without fuss.
Even into his eighties, Bill remained active and visible around the town he had served for so long. His presence felt reassuring, a living link to an era when civic duty was worn lightly but taken seriously.
Bill Rice lived a long life rooted in service, family and community. He leaves behind not only memories, but an example. Beverley is better for having known him.
Further reading: Bill’s 2010 interview with HU17 Magazine
an absolutely amazing man who will be missed by lots of people – my thoughts are with his family x