Branch chair Louise Guest says it was ‘a true privilege’ to meet the family of a late Durham Constabulary officer as they held a remembrance service in his honour.

The service paid tribute to PC Glenn Russel Corder, who lost his life in an on-duty road traffic accident on 6 February 1980.

Louise attended, alongside members of Glenn’s family, including his brother Rory and nephew, Matthew, as well as Glenn’s sister Robyn and her husband Phil.

Senior figures from the Force were also present, including Chief Constable Rachel Bacon and Assistant Chief Constable Jon McAdam.

Glenn died when he was just 18 years old. He was the passenger in a patrol car which collided with a tree on the A181 at Castle Eden while pursuing a suspected stolen vehicle.

Glenn, of Whickham, near Newcastle, had joined the Force in the previous year and had been posted to Peterlee Station just two weeks before his death.

Speaking after the service, Louise said: “It was an honour to attend the service in memory of Glenn. He was a dedicated young man who showed great commitment to Durham Constabulary, and he undoubtedly would have continued to do so for many years to come.

“I felt privileged to meet some of Glenn’s family, including his brother Rory, his nephew Matthew, his sister Robyn, and her husband Phil.

“Hearing them share their memories of Glenn, who was taken far too soon, was deeply moving. It also filled me with a profound sense of pride to reflect on someone who gave so much to our profession.

“The service was a powerful reminder of the character and dedication of police officers, and of the importance of never forgetting our fallen colleagues and the sacrifices they have made.” 

Following a short remembrance service, the attending family members presented the Elizabeth Emblem they had received in memory of Glenn to other guests.

Introduced in the UK in 2024, the symbolic pin badge is a national form of recognition for those who have died while performing a public service, and was awarded to Glenn after his brother, Rory, approached the Force for support with an application.

“The Elizabeth Emblem is a truly meaningful initiative, offering those grieving the loss of a public servant a lasting token of recognition - not only for their exceptional service, but for who they were as a person,” said Louise.

“No matter how much time passes, they should always know that we are here for them.” 

More information on the Elizabeth Emblem, including application guidance and eligibility criteria, is available on the UK Government website.

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