P.C. 243 (Derek Etchells)

P.C. 243 was one of the offiers on the scene when Coronation Street was closed off and evacuated after a gas leak at No.1 in March 1973. The constable answered to Sergeant Harrison, responding swiftly to his orders to put diversion signs at either end to keep traffic away and get onto a gas board man. During the crisis, the constable kept on the lookout for Bobby, Minnie Caldwell's missing cat, who was eventually found by Ted Loftus. After a few hours, they were given the all-clear and the residents were allowed to return to their homes.