Federation Secretary Richie Murray takes on seventh UK Police Unity Tour

25 August 2022

Cleveland Police Federation Secretary Richie Murray was among the cyclists on the UK Police Unity Tour last week – his seventh year riding in the event.

The tour – which consists of around 180 miles over two days – ended at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where the annual COPS (Care of Police Survivors) Service of Remembrance was held. Riders on the Unity Tour wore memorial bands on their wrists to honour police colleagues who lost their lives on duty.

Richie said: “It’s a gruelling task for all the officers that take part, but there’s great support. It’s an amazing thing, and riding with somebody’s name on your wrist, on a band, is a massive honour and a pleasure.

“Tough hills, tough bike ride, a lot of good publicity along the way, a lot of people along the route giving us a lot of cheers. And PC Rain kept away, which was really good.

“Then the Service of Remembrance, listening to those who’ve lost family and loved ones, really hits home for everybody. It was a fantastic ceremony and a fantastic service.”