Constable Philip Melville was a native of Kettle in Fife, and joined the City of Glasgow Police on 30 May 1907. His Register Number was A-227. He was posted to ‘F’ (St. Rollox) Division until he joined the Army in 1915 for the First World War. When he was demobbed in 1919, he was re-appointed to ‘F’ (St Rollox) Division and served there until transferred to ‘E’ (Northern) Division as part of the 1932 re-organisation of the Glasgow Police divisions.
On the afternoon of the 5 June 1936, Constable Melville was on patrol in Castle Street, Glasgow, when he saw a runaway horse, attached to a loaded wagon, galloping towards him.
With great presence of mind he dragged a cyclist from its path and then sprang at the horse’s head. He secured a firm grip on the bridle and the offside shaft of the wagon, and hung on. He successfully brought the horse and wagon to a stop some distance away. He only received minor bruising and was able to continue his duty. (London Gazette 1.2.1937)
For his quick presence of mind and selfless bravery, Constable Melville was awarded the King’s Police Medal for Gallantry and the Glasgow Corporation Bravery Medal.
He retired on pension on 3 June 1937.