WIREDGOV

Every year, families, friends, colleagues and leaders come together to remember the lives and sacrifice of police officers who have died or been killed in the line of duty at a service organised by the Police Remembrance Trust, with this year’s event held at Waterfront Hall in Belfast.

In recognition of the day, APCC Chair Emily Spurrell yesterday said:

“National Police Memorial Day is an opportunity to reflect on and honour the courage and commitment of officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for protecting the public.

“This year’s memorial service carries a deeper resonance as we mourn the recent and devastating loss of Cleveland PCs Matthew Blades and Tom Clough last month, and 19-year-old Northumbria PC Jess Turnbull who died in the line of duty in June this year. Such heartbreaking tragedies are felt by the whole of our policing family and remind us all too acutely of the risks our officers face every day in their duties to protect the public. My thoughts remain with their friends, families and colleagues at this exceptionally difficult time.

“Today, we pay tribute to their bravery, and share in the nation’s pride, for all those who have fallen in the line of duty, past and present. We honour their contribution and ensure their memory is never forgotten.”

APCC Board Member and South Wales PCC Emma Wools, representing the APCC at the Memorial Day service yesterday, added:

“Today, we remember the police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. We remember their courage, their commitment to others, and the dedication they showed in protecting the communities they served.

“Our thoughts are with their families, friends, colleagues and loved ones, whose strength and support help keep their memory alive each and every day.

“On this day of remembrance, we pause to reflect on their service with gratitude and respect.”