‘Honoured’ and ‘humbled’ PC represents Force at Memorial Day

11 October 2024

A Derbyshire Police Federation member said he was both ‘honoured and humbled’ to represent the Force as its standard bearer at the National Police Memorial Day (NPMD).

PC Tim Dugard carried the flag for the first time, joining colleagues from across the UK in a parade before Sunday’s service in Glasgow.

Tim said: “It was really moving to see so many officers in traditional dress uniform and for everyone to come together to pay their respects.

“I was a bit nervous at first but other standard bearers who have done it before put me at ease very quickly.”

He added: “I was very proud to represent Derbyshire. I’ve been in Derbyshire almost 17 years, to be able to carry the flag and have officers from other forces comment on how nice our flag was it was an honour.”

Tim said the walk to the start of the parade route was an occasion in itself with people stopping what they were doing to watch and take photos.

Big crowd

“There was a big crowd,” he said. “The flag was heavy as well. It took some effort to hold it.

“It’s been seven or eight years since I was last on parade but thankfully I soon remembered how to march.”

The parade of standard bearers and the Police Scotland and Scottish Federation Pipe Band went from Glasgow’s George Square to the city’s Royal Concert Hall, where the NPMD service was being held.

Tim said: “It was a really moving moment when we lined up to go into the service itself.

“Seeing everyone in the venue, walking through carrying our flag and parading on to the stage was really moving and then to hear the stories of those who have lost their lives and the tributes paid to them was very humbling.”