Fallen officer remembered with restored headstone, 113 years after his death

Sussex Police, together with Sussex Police Federation, the Friends of Ocklynge Cemetery, and Tookey Memorials, proudly unveiled the newly restored headstone of Inspector Arthur Walls at Ocklynge Cemetery in Eastbourne on Friday, July 18, marking 113 years since his tragic murder in the line of duty.

In October 1912, 44-year-old Inspector Walls—then Parade Inspector for Eastbourne Borough Police—responded alone to reports of a burglary at a residence on South Cliff Avenue, Eastbourne. When he confronted the intruder, he was shot twice and died at the scene. He left behind a widow and three children.

The headstone was formally unveiled by Sussex Police Federation Chair Raffaele Cioffi and Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Rosie Ross. The Mayor of Eastbourne and dignitaries from the local community were in attendance, along with serving officers, volunteers and members of the public. Kevin Gordon, Chair of Friends of Ocklynge Cemetery and retired British Transport Police officer, led the proceedings with a moving tribute to Inspector Walls.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Rosie Ross said: "Inspector Walls showed immense bravery in the line of duty, and today's ceremony was a powerful reminder of the risks police officers take every day to protect the public. It's our honour to preserve his memory and ensure that his sacrifice is never forgotten".

The original headstone had deteriorated over the decades. Restoration was made possible through joint funding by Sussex Police Federation and Sussex Police, with project coordination and craftsmanship provided by the Friends of Ocklynge Cemetery and local stonemasons Tookey Memorials.

Inspector Walls was remembered as 'genial and kind towards his colleagues and the public'. His funeral in October 1912 drew a large procession through Eastbourne, supported by a police honour guard, and was followed by a community-led fund raising for his bereaved family.

This restoration ensures that Inspector Walls’ memory and sacrifice remain honoured and visible to future generations.