International Women's Day 2025: Four generations of female police officers
PC Elli James has joined Greater Manchester Police (GMP) as the fourth generation of female police officers in her family, continuing a legacy that began with her great-great-great aunt Ivy Baxter in 1937. Ivy was a pioneering officer who served during WWII, followed by Joyce Davis in the 1950s, one of the first female police drivers. Elli's mother, Laura James, also served in the Metropolitan Police. Elli's journey reflects her family's dedication to policing and breaking gender barriers.
Fourth-Generation Officer Continues Family’s Century-Long Policing Legacy
PC Elli James has become the fourth generation of women in her family to serve in British policing, joining Greater Manchester Police after completing her training at Sedgley Park.
The 21-week training programme culminated in her passing out parade on 14 February 2025, marking the latest chapter in a family history that began when her great-great-great aunt Ivy Baxter joined the Metropolitan Police in 1937. Baxter made history when she was promoted to sergeant in July 1940 and assigned to the Isle of Man, where she maintained security at internment camps in Port Erin and Port St Mary throughout the war years.
The tradition continued with Ivy’s niece Joyce Davis, who joined the Metropolitan Police in 1951 as one of the original ‘Fly Girls’ - a pioneering group of female police drivers introduced in the early 1950s. Davis excelled as a driver during the EOKA troubles in Cyprus and became one of the first members of the Metropolitan Police Women’s Association when it was established in 1976, retiring the following year after 26 years of service.
PC James’s mother Laura joined the Metropolitan Police in 1996, serving as a uniform response officer at Peckham station in Southeast London. Her proudest moment came in 1997 when she served at the State Funeral of Lady Diana, Princess of Wales, maintaining security near the Queen Victoria Memorial. She met her husband Darren at Peckham police station - he retired in 2022 as a Detective Sergeant after 30 years of service.
“Words cannot express how excited I am to be a part of Greater Manchester Police and to carry forward the incredible legacy of my female ancestors, who paved the way for women in policing,” said PC James, who moved to Manchester in 2023 before beginning her training. “This journey is not just about me; it’s a testament to the strength, resilience, and dedication of the women in my family who have served with honour and distinction.”
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