Shaw Taylor: The Face of Crime Prevention on British Television

A Television Staple: Bringing Crime Awareness to the Forefront

Shaw Taylor, a household name in British television, is best known for presenting the long-running crime prevention program Police 5, which appealed to the public to help solve crimes. With his iconic catchphrase "keep 'em peeled," Taylor became an integral part of British popular culture, educating and informing audiences about the importance of crime prevention.

Early Life and Career

Born Eric Stanley Taylor on October 26, 1924, in Hackney, East London, Taylor's early life was marked by a strong work ethic. His father worked as a fitter for the Gas Light and Coke Company, while his mother worked at a local box factory. Taylor served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) before training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). He began his acting career on stage in the West End and on tour, eventually moving into television and radio.

A Versatile Career in Television and Radio

Taylor's early television career saw him work as an announcer for Associated Television (ATV), filling in for the regular announcer when needed. He went on to act in numerous film and television productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including game shows such as Password, Tell the Truth, and Dotto. In addition, he presented various radio programs, including a music show on Radio Luxembourg called The Friday Spectacular, which he co-hosted with Muriel Young.

Police 5 and Legacy

Taylor's most enduring legacy is undoubtedly Police 5, a five-minute television program that first aired in the London area in 1962. The show's success led to a spin-off, Junior Police 5, also presented by Taylor, which aimed to educate younger viewers about crime prevention. Taylor's "keep 'em peeled" catchphrase became an integral part of British popular culture, urging viewers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Taylor received several awards and honors for his contributions to television and crime prevention. He was recognized by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for his work on Police 5, and his catchphrase has become an iconic part of British cultural heritage.

Personal Life and Later Years

Taylor passed away on March 17, 2015, at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of public service and entertainment. His work on Police 5 continues to be remembered and celebrated, serving as a testament to his dedication to crime prevention and community engagement.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Taylor's iconic catchphrase "keep 'em peeled" was originally used on Junior Police 5, but he later adopted it for Police 5 at the suggestion of a friend.
• Taylor was an occasional panellist on the popular talent show New Faces.
• He presented a pilot episode of Whodunnit on ITV in 1972, before the show was taken over by Edward Woodward for the first series in 1973.

Taylor's enduring legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of community engagement and crime prevention, making him a beloved figure in British television history.