As Salisbury marks the Queen's Jubilee today (Friday, June 3), visitors and guests arriving into The Close may be greeted by an ex-police officer in his Union Jack cap.

Meet Gary Baldwin, a traffic team assistant for the Cathedral.

"I wanted to join in the fun and not just be so official," he said of his hat.

The Cathedral's traffic team assistants, often found in the parking attendant's box, are responsible for inspecting parking and vehicle access to The Close.

However, Gary says that there is more to the job than just that.

"We look after The Close as if it's our own," he said.

"We are the first point of contact for visitors and residents alike. We help people with their shopping, and if anyone falls ill, we help and call a taxi."

Gary is a ex-policeman, retired from Wiltshire Police since 2006.

After retiring, he took up painting and decorating at some properties in The Close, which led him to apply for the position, which he describes as his "final thunder".

He says he took up the position to be "more in touch with the public" and that it was good for mental wellbeing.

Gary adds that today has seen quite a few people visiting the Cathedral, with "lots of smiles".

"Today, we have had quite a few people come in and lots of smiles, which is lovely. And what better place to be than near Salisbury Cathedral."

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