Farewell to South Yorkshire’s ‘TV Tim’ – Traffic Cops Legend Retires
South Yorkshire Police are bidding a heartfelt goodbye to PC Tim Scothern, famously known as ‘TV Tim’ from the hit Traffic Cops documentary. Tim’s iconic TV appearances ran from 2002 to 2012, making him a household name and a force to be reckoned with on the streets.
Three Decades of Policing Excellence
Tim joined South Yorkshire Police in 1992, starting as a probationary officer before moving to the Response Team at Dinnington Station, Rotherham. A few years in, he found his true calling in the Operational Support Unit (OSU) as a traffic officer. There, Tim excelled at making roads safer and nabbing some of South Yorkshire’s most wanted criminals.
His road policing skills shone brightly on TV’s Traffic Cops (BBC1) and Interceptors (Channel 5), showcasing the tough job officers face every day.
Tributes Pour In From Colleagues
“Tim has been an icon to roads policing for decades and will be a sad loss to the team,” said OSU Roads Policing Inspector Craig Clifton.
“Even in his last days, he stayed on the streets, managing pursuits and delivering brilliant intelligence. Just weeks ago, fans stopped him for autographs over a stolen car!”
Superintendent Lydia Lynskey added, “Tim’s enthusiasm never faded. He tirelessly worked to catch offenders and disrupt organised crime across South Yorkshire. I commend his 30 years’ service and wish him all the best.”
PC Angela Selous, Tim’s close friend and colleague, reflected warmly:
“I’ve worked with Tim for 15 years. He’s been one of my best mates on the job. Despite his tough exterior, he enjoyed our girly chats and was always honest, even when we argued. He’s got a natural knack for catching bad guys – though finding a pen when it mattered? Not so much!”
From Screen Star to Motorsport Dreams
Tim’s supervisor, DS Gareth Bryant, revealed the surreal experience of supervising a TV legend:
“Watching Tim on Traffic Cops inspired me to join the police. Now as his supervisor, it’s been a pleasure to see his dedication and enthusiasm right up to retirement. He’s left an incredible legacy in making South Yorkshire’s roads safer.”
Tim’s final day on the beat is Thursday 5 May 2022. He plans to channel his passion into the motorsport industry next.
We salute Tim Scothern for his 30 years of service, unforgettable TV moments, and his commitment to justice. Best of luck in the fast lane, Tim!
