Nation remembers fallen police officers

The ninth National Police Memorial Day, a national event that honours police officers throughout the United Kingdom who have given their lives in the line of duty, will be held at York Minster.

This year the event comes soon after the shooting of Pcs Fiona Bone, 32, and Nicola Hughes, 23, who were ambushed and killed as they went to answer a routine 999 call to a burglary on the Hattersley estate in Greater Manchester.

Senior politicians will stand shoulder to shoulder with more than 40 Chief Constables, colleagues, families, friends and members of the public in order to ensure the nation acknowledges a timely reminder of the true meaning of public service and the high price which is too often paid by officers and their families, for that service.

Among the other officers being remembered at Sunday’s service will be Pc Sharon Beshenivsky, who was shot dead in Bradford in a gun raid at a Bradford travel agents in 2005, and Pc Ian Broadhurst who was gunned down in Leeds on Boxing Day 2003 after he and his colleagues spotted a vehicle displaying false number plates.

Paul McKeever, chairman, of the Police Federation of England and Wales said yesterday: “This day is a way for the nation to recognise the best of all human qualities – selfless and devoted courage – and the example and valour of those officers who died on duty acts as an inspiration to us all.”

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu said: “We should never forget the work of our police service in our society, protecting citizens, preserving the peace and serving others in difficult situations. It is right that we pay tribute to their heroism and sacrifice in the line of duty.

“We should be proud of our police and honour those that have fallen.”