Epic truncheon relay raises awareness of mental health illness

3 December 2024

North Yorkshire Police Federation members are taking part in a mammoth Truncheon Relay across the county to raise awareness of mental health issues.

The 440-mile event involves police officers and staff carrying a hand-carved truncheon through 34 stages and passing it on to those taking part at the start of the next leg.

It’s been organised by Cops ‘n Plodders, a group set up following the death by suicide of PC Mick ‘Aky’ Atkinson in 2018 to inspire officers and staff to get out in the open air and talk about their feelings and issues.

The relay is also raising money for the Tour de Aky, a charity cycle ride set up in memory of Mick.

Two organisers of the event: Jon Wood (left) and Dan Preston.

Those taking part in the relay have been walking, running, cycling, and even going by paddleboard and kayak to complete their stage.

And they have faced everything that the Great British weather can throw at them, including snow.

PC Dan Preston is one of the organisers.

Mental health

He said: “Cops ‘n’ Plodders is for people involved in policing, their friends and family, and it’s about getting them out in the open air, speaking to each other and sharing experiences about mental health.

“We’ve done a few things before and came up with the idea of a relay across the county and passing a truncheon on.

“The idea was to get people together, getting them involved, getting people talking, and it’s been really good.”

The truncheon was carved by Sergeant Joe Rotchell and engraved by PC Mark Davey.

It will complete it’s marathon journey in York on Wednesday (4 December) and the Chief Constable Tim Forber is due to take part in the penultimate stage on Tuesday.

Organisers hope as many people as possible will join them in York for the finish.

Truncheon relay

PC Jon Wood is another of the organisers.

He said: “We’re really pleased with it all. We’ve got so much in this beautiful county and we wanted to get people out in it and do our bit for mental health.

“We’re really proud of it and pleased with how many people have come on board and joined in.”

You can get regular updates and photos, and leave messages of support on the Truncheon Relay through the Cops ‘n’ Plodders Facebook group.

And you can donate to the Truncheon Relay and Tour de Aky via their Go Fund Me page.