CLEVELAND Police's longest-serving female police officer has retired after 34-and-a-half years.

Detective Inspector Marie Norminton, who became the first woman detective constable in Stockton, finished her career yesterday.

Her final days were marked by a visit to the Royal Garden Party. Det Insp Norminton joined the women's police department at MIddlesbrough in 1966, and moved to CID a year later.

She received a Chief Constable's commendation for her part in arresting two men during a burglary, and, during her time with the Regional Crime Squad, was awarded a commendation for helping to solve a North Yorkshire murder.

In 1975, she took up an inspector's post with the Royal Hong Kong Police. She set up the Protection of Females Section in Kowloon, and won a District Commander's commendation after 182 people were arrested in connection with exploiting women.

Det Insp Norminton said: "I've had some amazing experiences during my career, and I really feel privileged to have been in a position to help people. It's also very satisfying to watch younger officers who I've trained find their feet and progress through the force."