Murdered Bognor Regis policeman honoured

A memorial to Sergeant William Avis DCM and caretaker Francis Fuller was dedicated at the town’s police station on November 11.

The short and sombre ceremony saw the plaque in the station’s reception dedicated by the Rev Clive Jenkins, a chaplain of Chichester police station and the vicar of Southbourne with West Thorney.

Mr Jenkins said: “I dedicate the plaque and remember those who served in the police and who currently serve.

He gave a short reading from the Book of Ecclesiastes, held a minute’s silence and said a prayer to complete the occasion.

Sgt Avis and Mr Fuller died on February 26 after they confronted a deserting soldier who threatened them with a revolver. Sergeant Avis, 47, attempted to disarm the deserter but was shot in the chest.

Chief Inspector Jane Derrick, Sussex Police’s Arun district commander, said: “I am very proud of Sgt Avis and very proud of my officers today.”