What is "waterguard"

The Waterguard was the name given to a division of HM Customs and Excise responsible for the control of vessels, aircraft, vehicles and persons arriving into and departing from the United Kingdom. This included crew members and passengers, as well as persons travelling on foot. Waterguard officers were responsible for applying the allowances provided for in law and for collection of customs and excise revenue on the excess. The officers were also responsible for the enforcement of the prohibitions and restrictions, including controlled drugs and plant and animal health. It officially ceased to exist in 1972, with the reorganization of HM Customs and Excise.