Crowds were wowed by a fast car, powerful motorbike, high-tech equipment and an obedient dog.
When the boys in blue opened the doors of Gravel Hill police station on August 15, 1987, the public flocked to witness the workings of Dorset police force's traffic division.
The open day was designed to give the public the chance to inspect a wide range of police motor vehicles and equipment and talk with officers on traffic patrol.
Among the popular attractions was a demonstration drive in a police patrol car over urban and open roads with an experienced motor patrol officer at the wheel.
Visitors also had the chance to try the motorcycle simulator, giving the impression of riding on a rolling road and then inspect the real thing – a 1000cc petrol bike.
On display was the equipment used for law enforcement like the intoximeter in drink-drive cases and a hand-held radar for detecting speeding motorists.
Officers specialising in accident investigation were on hand to explain their work, and the accident prevention section mounted a road safety exhibition.
The crime prevention section gave advice to the public and there were faci,lities for post-coding bicycles.
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