Chair reflects on ‘beautiful’ police and fire memorial service

16 June 2025

Branch chair Rob Bowles had the honour of attending a North Yorkshire Police and North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue memorial service on behalf of the Federation last Sunday (8 June).

The event is held annually between two of the region’s emergency services at joint headquarters in Northallerton, and sees officers, staff, family, and friends come together to remember colleagues who have lost their lives both on and off duty.

It was hosted by the Force’s Chief Constable Tim Forber and the Fire and Rescue Service’s Deputy Chief Fire Officer Matthew Walker, who were joined by Rob in laying wreaths in a memorial garden towards the end of the service.

Rob said: “It was an absolute privilege to represent the branch at the service, which was a beautiful tribute to all our colleagues we have lost and miss every day.

 

 

“To be surrounded by North Yorkshire’s emergency services family and so many people there for one common reason was special. I think it’s vital we all remain united through the pain of losing members of our profession – those who once stood next to us as we faced demands and pressures like nothing else.

“It shows even though they are no longer with us, their contributions as professionals will continue to be recognised, and more importantly, who they were as human beings will never be forgotten.”

Among the fallen police officers to be honoured at the service was PC Rosie Prior, who died in January this year.

Before guests stepped into the memorial garden, hymns, prayers and readings were held inside the Rosie Prior Conference Suite – renamed from the Muker and Thompson Meeting Room as part of the proceedings. 

Plaque

Rosie’s life was also commemorated with a memorial plaque unveiled by her husband, Chris.

“We were all so deeply shocked and saddened by Rosie’s death earlier this year. She was an incredible officer who gave such wonderful service to our Force, and I know how much she is missed,” Rob added.

“She was a much-loved mother and wife too, and I am pleased her husband was there to see so many friends, colleagues and fellow emergency service workers paying their respects.

“I was proud to mark her memory on behalf of the Federation, as we do our bit to make sure she is always remembered.”

 

Rosie Prior's life was also commemorated with a memorial plaque
unveiled by her husband.

 

Other senior figures present at the service included North Yorkshire’s High Sheriff Sir Andrew Lawson-Tancred and Lord Lieutenant Jo Ropner, as well as York and North Yorkshire Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime, Jo Coles.

Chief Constable Tim Forber delivered ‘A Police Officer’s Prayer’, which read: “I ask O God, for your protection from all mental, physical and spiritual harm, as I keep the peace and seek justice for your people.

“May I be a good and honourable police officer, courageous in my duties, realising that so many are dependent on me for life and safety. When I am tempted to think no one really cares and that I am taken for granted, sustain in me the knowledge that so many thousands do care and are grateful for my presence.

Reflect

“And when my tour of duty is over here on earth, may I enjoy the peace and happiness of heaven that you have promised to those who serve you well. Amen.”

Rob ended: “What events like this give us in policing is the opportunity to stop and reflect.

“The service was also a nice reminder of what we do and who we are as public servants – we make sacrifices and we put the needs and safety of others before ourselves.

“While this sometimes results in the ultimate sacrifice, we will always ensure the memory of all those who are no longer with us, lives on."