Police Unity Tour rider taking on ‘memory mile’ challenge for COPS

26 June 2025

A fundraising Federation member is going the extra mile for the Care of Police Survivors (COPS) charity every day up until this year’s Police Unity Tour (PUT).

Detective Constable Emma Corby has been inspired after 2024 saw her complete her first PUT – a three-day, 180-mile bike ride completed annually by police officers and staff across the country, marking the lives of colleagues who have died in the line of duty.

As she completed the event last year, Emma was deeply moved by its overall mission, including the raising of money for COPS, which supports families grieving the loss of a loved one in the police force.

Now, she has not only signed up for a second successive Unity Tour cycle, but has started her own individual fundraising efforts as she gears up for the ride once more.

Police Unity Tour

“Last year, I had the absolute privilege to be part of the East Midlands chapter of the PUT, which brings together the forces of Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire. Hand on heart, it was an experience I’ll remember forever for so many different reasons,” she said.

“It was an incredible weekend, where you’re surrounded by so many amazing people as you push yourself through a physically demanding few days. What made it special is that the miles still flew by as I spoke to other cyclists about their experiences and reasons for riding.

“As soon as it was over, I knew I wanted to go again next year.

“But in the meantime, I still wanted to do something more, so that’s why I have taken on this journey of my own. Earlier this year, I began running a mile every day and won’t stop until I have reached 123 consecutive days, which will be just under four-and-a-half marathons. 

 

Detective Constable Emma Corby.

 

“This is to honour the 123 police deaths recorded as the result of crime, because if there’s one thing that PUT has taught me, it’s that tomorrow isn’t promised to any of us and we must remember our colleagues who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Commencing on 31 March, Emma’s feat has been timed so her final run takes place on Thursday 31 July – a day before the 2025 PUT begins.

Three days of cycling will then get underway, as the East Midlands chapter work their way towards the National Memorial Arboretum in Lichfield, Staffordshire.

As with tradition, arrival here will mark the end of event, with COPS’ much-loved Annual Service of Remembrance rounding off proceedings for another year.

Before this, however, are plenty of important stops along the way – including at Staffordshire’s Drayton Manor, where the chapter typically meet with the families of fallen officers.

Survivors

“These family members are often referred to as ‘survivors’, and they can also choose to ride as part of the chapter if they wish,” Emma explained. 

“But many of them will meet us at Drayton Manor, and this is usually a very emotional affair. As we rode in and they welcomed us last year, I remember feeling glad I was wearing sunglasses, because the lump in my throat was certainly making my eyes water.

“To then hear them talk about their loved ones was so humbling and inspiring. They are my motivation – my ‘why’ – for this extra fundraising push, and I just want to do them all proud.”

Another key incentive for Emma on her runs is to enable COPS to continue its ‘invaluable’ work, she says. 

“I’m grateful to the PUT for making me learn more about COPS and what an amazing organisation it is. Its services allow conversations, connections and support to be found when its needed most by bereaved families of police officers.

“COPS also connects these people who have experienced loss in similar circumstances to each other, which is such a wonderful thing. As the charity says itself, it is helping to rebuild shattered lives.

Charity

“It’s for that reason, as well as taking part in this year’s PUT, I am literally going the extra mile to help sustain such an incredible initiative.”

Donations for Emma’s ‘memory mile’ challenge will be accepted through the East Midlands chapter’s JustGiving page for their 2025 Police Unity Tour entry.

Federation members can also follow her running exploits on Instagram, where she is posting short clips in dedication to a fallen officer each day.

“Any support through donations, social media follows and shares, and general encouragement is very much appreciated, and I would like to thank all my police colleagues who have already done so,” she added.

“Registrations might be closed for this year, but I’d also like to urge Fed members to consider taking part in the PUT at some point in the future, as it’s genuinely an amazing experience and one I’m proud to be doing again.

“Until then, you’ll find me chasing miles and honouring heroes.”

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