Harking back to yesteryear: The Caped Crusader bobby goes on the beat

But this is not some superhero. It's local beat bobby Brian Marlow, harking back to the policing of yesteryear.

The 53-year-old officer has been nicknamed the Caped Crusader for going out on the beat in his home town in a traditional policeman's outer garment.

Constable Marlow shuns stabproof vests and fluorescent jackets, instead pacing his patch in his cape like a 19th-century Peeler.

He says his outdated uniform commands more respect. He started wearing the blue cape and helmet when he joined up in 1971 and wore it until his retirement two years ago.

But he missed pounding the streets of Blandford, Dorset, and became a special constable. Constable Marlow says all forces should adopt his methods and issue capes to officers.

He added: "I have had a cape since I joined the force as a lad. I was given one when I was a cadet and used to wear it everywhere.

"I wear my traditional tunic and helmet. People often don't see policemen in helmets these days.

"Officers are usually in cars and have flat caps on, and the community support officers aren't allowed to wear the helmets.

"So when people see me in my cape and helmet they love it. It reassures them and that is one of the police's most important jobs.

"The public really seem to appreciate it. I get lots of comments from people and they are nearly always favourable.

"I sometimes get strange comments from teenagers.

"They joke that I'm off the programme Life on Mars. Some people have even started calling me the Caped Crusader.

"But I would urge other officers to try wearing the old uniform and see what the reaction is."