On Saturday 29 July 1855, Donaldson and his constable, James Freestone, checked on the King's Arms Public House in Haslemere to ensure the strict licensing hours were adhered to. The pub was full of 'navvies' who were working on the London to Portsmouth railway and who were celebrating with their fortnightly wages. Following the two policemen's encouragement to drink up and vacate the premises, a brawl ensued resulting in the arrest of David Smith who was duly locked up in the 'cage' in the town's Market House. When some of Smith's allies presented themselves demanding his release, a fight broke out and Inspector Donaldson was struck over the head with an iron bar. He managed, with help, to walk back to his house in Cow Street, but died of his injuries at 3 o'clock on Sunday morning.

On Sunday 26th July at 12:00 Haslemere will be remembering Inspector William Donaldson,  the first Surrey officer killed on active duty at the Memorial Green, High Street, Haslemere.   

All are welcome to attend.