In Memory of Constable Arthur Malcolmson

Today, we pay tribute to the memory of Constable Arthur Malcolmson, who tragically lost his life in a road accident eighty-six years ago, on 8 February 1940, whilst carrying out his duties.

For many years, the circumstances surrounding Arthur’s untimely death faded from memory. However, in 2021, research uncovered the details of his death, allowing us to share his story and ensure it is recognised by our members.

In 2021, thanks to the generosity of our members and other supporters, funds were raised to commission a memorial plaque for Constable Malcolmson, marking his previously unmarked grave.

A dedication service was held at the site on the 8th of February 2022, led by Reverend Neil Galbraith. This event was attended by several members of our organisation, as well as officers from Lanarkshire Division of Police Scotland.

Our research has also led to Arthur being commemorated at the Scottish Police Memorial, located at Tulliallan Castle, Kincardine, Fife, ensuring his contribution and sacrifice are remembered by the wider policing community.

In addition to honouring Constable Arthur Malcolmson, we ensured that the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service was informed about the tragic loss of the two fire fighters who also perished as a result of the accident. These officers have subsequently been commemorated, with their names added to the memorial dedicated to fallen members of the fire service.

May they rest in peace.

Constable Arthur Malcolmson

Lanarkshire Constabulary (1938–1940)

Constable Arthur Malcolmson was born on the 11th of January 1917 at Mauldslie Place, Crossgates, Bellshill. He was the only child of Arthur Malcolmson senior, a coal miner, and his wife, who were both aged 39 at the time of his birth. Arthur spent his early years growing up in the close-knit Crossgates community and attended the local schools.

In 1928, Arthur joined the 1st Bellshill Boys’ Brigade Company, where he quickly distinguished himself through commitment, enthusiasm, and leadership. Progressing steadily through the ranks, he ultimately attained the position of Lieutenant.

Widely regarded as a popular and dependable young man, Arthur was known for his pleasant nature and willingness to help others whenever possible.

Upon leaving school, Arthur began working with Potts Undertakers at their Hamilton branch. Despite steady employment, he harboured a long-held ambition to serve as a police officer. That ambition was realised in 1938, when he joined the Lanarkshire Constabulary and was posted to Hamilton.

Throughout his service he continued to live at home with his parents in Crossgates.

In 1939, Arthur became engaged to his childhood sweetheart, Margaret McQuarrie, who also resided in Crossgates. Their future together, however, was tragically cut short by the events of the following year.

With the outbreak of the Second World War, Arthur was transferred to the Civil Defence section, based in Hamilton, where he worked alongside the Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS). A qualified driver, he was regularly entrusted with driving the various vehicles assigned to the unit.

On Thursday the 8th of February 1940, Arthur reported for duty at Hamilton. He was instructed to collect equipment from several fire stations and was allocated an AFS vehicle. Two AFS firemen, Cornelius McGuire and John Bishop, were assigned to assist him. Weather conditions that day were particularly poor, with wet roads and heavy fog.

After collecting equipment in Uddingston, the three men were travelling along New Edinburgh Road, near Bothwellpark Cemetery, following behind a lorry and approaching the cemetery gates. The precise sequence of events that followed remains unclear; however, a bus travelling in the opposite direction collided with the offside of the AFS vehicle.

The impact was catastrophic. The wheel of the bus tore into the vehicle, embedding itself in the centre and causing the car to concertina violently against the low cemetery wall. The force of the collision was such that the front of the vehicle was twisted completely around to face the rear.

One of the firemen was thrown clear of the wreckage into the cemetery and was killed instantly. The bus conductress, passengers, and bystanders attempted to rescue Arthur and the remaining fireman, but both were trapped within the mangled vehicle. Emergency services were summoned, and Chief Constable Keith, upon being informed of the accident, immediately attended the scene and took charge of the recovery operation.

The wreckage had to be virtually cut in two to free the trapped men. Both were placed in an ambulance and driven to Glasgow Royal Infirmary. Tragically, the second fireman died during the journey, and Arthur succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at the hospital.

Chief Constable Keith personally visited the homes of all three men to inform their families of the tragedy. The loss of the three young men sent shockwaves through the local communities, who were left devastated by the sudden and tragic loss.

All three men were accorded service funerals. Arthur’s funeral took place on Saturday the 10th of February 1940. His body was borne from his home by officers of the Lanarkshire Constabulary and placed on the hearse. The funeral cortege was led by the Boys’ Brigade Pipe Band and followed by more than 400 members of local Boys’ Brigade companies marching behind the coffin.

In addition, over 200 members of the Lanarkshire Constabulary, Auxiliary Fire Service, and Air Raid Precautions (ARP) took part in the procession. They were led by Chief Constable Keith, Superintendents Aitken and McDonald, Inspectors Sidey and Inch, and AFS Instructor Syson. Thousands of members of the public lined the streets from Crossgates, through Bellshill Cross, to Bothwellpark Cemetery, where Arthur was laid to rest.

The funeral service was conducted by Reverend Renton of St Andrew’s Church, who also served as Chaplain to the 1st Bellshill Boys’ Brigade.

In his address, Reverend Renton spoke of Arthur’s defining qualities, noting his exceptional willingness to help others and his inability ever to refuse assistance. He recalled how local children adored him, listening intently to his every word, and affectionately referred to him as “Big-Hearted Arthur.”

Arthur was described as a man of great devotion to duty, always immaculately turned out in uniform. Reverend Renton concluded by describing him as clean-living, kind, cheerful, and deeply respected by all who knew him.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry was held at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Monday the 26th of February 1940, where a formal verdict was returned.

It is also sad to note that Arthurs father died exactly one year after the death of his son and his mother the following year in 1942. Both died of cancer.

Constable Arthur Malcolmson’s life, though tragically brief, was marked by service, kindness, and dedication. He memory will never be forgotten.

May he rest in peace.

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