The families of Sergeant John Albert ‘Jack’ Cretney and PC Gordon Black are set to receive the prestigious Elizabeth Emblem in recognition of their loved ones’ service and sacrifice.
Introduced in 2024, the emblem is a form of national recognition, awarded to the closest living relative of public servants who lost their lives in the line of duty. It represents the civilian equivalent to the Elizabeth Cross, awarded to members of the armed forces who were killed in action. Both Sergeant Cretney and PC Black died while serving with the Isle of Man Constabulary.
Sergeant John Albert ‘Jack’ Cretney was killed on February 27, 1958, when travelling from Ronaldsway Airport to Manchester, where he was set to represent the force at a communications trade show. The aircraft he was travelling on crashed close to the summit of Winter Hill, near Bolton. Sgt. Cretney, who was 41, was one of 35 killed in the accident.
PC Gordon Black died just eight years later, on January 5, 1966. While conducting a motorcycle patrol in poor weather conditions near South Cape, Laxey, PC Black collided with a pedal cyclist and was killed as a result, leaving behind his wife and four children.
Fitting Recognition
Speaking after it was announced that both men would be recognised, Lieutenant Governor Sir John Lorimer said: “The Elizabeth Emblem is a fitting and lasting recognition of two members of the Isle of Man Constabulary who gave their lives in the course of their public duties.
“More than half a century after their deaths, it is particularly poignant that their service and sacrifice are being formally recognised in this way. I hope that the Elizabeth Emblem will be a source of pride and comfort to their families, and a reminder that the Island very much remembers the contribution made by Jack and Gordon.”
Chief Constable Russell Foster added: “On behalf of the Constabulary, I would like to pay tribute to Jack and Gordon and to acknowledge the families who were left behind.
“Their service forms part of the history and heritage of policing on the Isle of Man, and it is right that they should be remembered.”