Waterguard
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The Waterguard is the name given to a division of HM Customs and Excise responsible for the collection of excise revenue from the passengers and crew of ships and aircraft, and other incoming travellers to the United Kingdom.
[edit] History
Formed in 1809 as the "Preventive Waterguard" to combat smuggling, the Waterguard was the sea-based arm of revenue enforcement and complemented the "riding officers" who patrolled the shore. The Waterguard was initially based in Watch Houses around the coast, and boat crews patrolled the coast in cutters each night. It was under Admiralty control from 1816 to 1822, when it and riding officers were amalgamated under the control of the Board of Customs. The Waterguard was absorbed into the Customs and Excise department in 1971.
[edit] Description
Waterguard are uniformed officers, whose uniform is very similar to that of a present day Royal Navy officer. The most noticeable difference is that the bands of rank extend only half way around the sleeve, instead of forming a continuous band. The name "Waterguard" is today misleading, since their domain is no longer confined to maritime travellers, but they also patrol airports and other places of entry into the United Kingdom. Waterguard officers are often (incorrectly) referred to simply as "customs officers". By contrast, officers of Her Majesty's Customs are plain clothed, and concentrate on investigations rather than routine search.
