Police Unity Tour around the corner for Fed members

31 July 2025

Dyfed Powys Police Federation members are gearing up to remember fallen colleagues during this year's Police Unity Tour (PUT).

Taking place this year from Friday (1 August) to Sunday (3 August), the annual PUT is an annual bike ride held in memory of police officers who have died in the line of duty.

Since its inception, the event has enjoyed a close association with charity the Care of Police Survivors (COPS), which provides bespoke support to the grieving relatives of late officers – known as ‘survivors’ – who are also welcome to cycle and get involved with the PUT.

Six Dyfed Powys participants are set to ride with three support crew members, led by Sergeant Sarah Evans as part of an overall Wales chapter along with counterparts from Gwent, North Wales and South Wales.

 

 

They will set off from Aberystwyth on Friday 1 August, making their way over the North Powys hills to Shrewsbury, before eventually reaching Lichfield, Staffordshire. The annual Service of Remembrance will then take place at the National Memorial Arboretum.

“We are all looking forward to another weekend of pedalling hard, supporting each other and making it to the National Arboretum. There are quite a few seasoned riders on this Tour now, and over the years, we have made some lasting friendships all for this cause,” Sarah said.

“The Welsh chapter is expected to have 32 riders this year, made up of serving and retired officers and staff and with two survivors joining us.

“Once again, I will be riding for DC Roger Meyrick, who died in 1990, and I look forward to handing over my wristband to his wife, Francis, and their family.

Gareth Earp

“We will also be remembering Inspector Gareth Earp, whose wife, Tamsin, will be in attendance to meet up with us and cheer us on.

“I know that our efforts and raising money and awareness do not go unrecognised by these people, which reminds us of why we get involved in the PUT and support the COPS charity.”

A new member of the Force’s PUT entry this year is its Temporary Chief Constable, Ifan Charles.

Former Deputy Chief Constable Steve Cockwell is also set for the saddle and shared his thoughts with the Federation ahead of his eighth ride.

 

 

He said: “What I love most about the ride is that it brings the Force together with these families who have experienced such loss – it’s a way to let them know they are never forgotten about by us, no matter how much time passes since their loved one died.

“I retired last year, but while you’re in the police, you never know what could be around the corner. That’s why it’s so important to have something in place for survivors in case the worst suddenly happens.

“It’s a great opportunity to be with them, and to be with each other as you put in the hard miles. Friendships are built from the camaraderie of support and encouragement among both Dyfed Powys and wider Welsh chapter riders, so I am looking forward to linking up with everyone once again.”

This year will be the 13th edition of the PUT since it was introduced to the UK back in 2013.

Event

Shortly after this new highlight on the policing calendar was established, it was brought to Dyfed Powys Police in part by former chief organiser PC Andy Smart.

Andy, who still cycles in the event and will do so for the 10th time this year, said: “Looking back, I’m so glad we worked to get it off the ground for our force, so officers and staff can get involved year after year.

“Through this, we can also be proud of the fact the families of our late colleagues are now connected to the wonderful services of COPS – the overriding message is always about continuity and support for these people as they navigate their grief.

“Nationally, the press we get as police isn’t always the greatest, but the PUT is a time when we come together for an all-encompassing positive, emotional experience, and I think the public see that and how much it truly means to us all.”

Honour

Sarah, who took over Andy’s lead responsibilities in 2022, echoed many of these sentiments.

“Ever since I joined and began overseeing the Tour from a Dyfed Powys point-of-view, I have enjoyed every part of it. Our chapter is an honour to be involved in, and I hope we have another fantastic few days ahead,” she added.

“On behalf of us all, I’d like to thank Federation members for their generosity once again with donations and general support. You are helping the event achieve its purpose – making sure our fallen colleagues and their lovely families are never forgotten.”

You can donate to the Dyfed Powys PUT riders by visiting their JustGiving page.

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