Fallen colleagues remembered at National Police Memorial Day
26 September 2022
Showing respect to the memory of fallen colleagues is an important way to educate new officers about the history of the police family.
Representatives from Surrey Police Federation joined colleagues from across the country for National Police Memorial Day in Belfast on 25 September.
Secretary Tom Arthur, Vice-Secretary Darren Penball and Representative Adam Patterson accompanied families of police officers to the event at Waterfront Hall.
Tom said: “I think it’s so important that we remember officers from the past and the sacrifices that they’ve made for the country and for law and order. A day like today is very, very important that we show our respect.
“We need to just remind ourselves we’re an ever-changing force, and remember the things that have gone before us. We have a very young workforce in Surrey, along with a lot of forces now, and I think they need to know the history behind some of the things that have happened in the past and why we operate the way we do now.”
Surrey joined 2,000 members of the police family at the service at Waterfront Hall to pay tribute to officers’ commitment, courage and sacrifice.
Members of the Royal family, who would normally attend, were absent as they are still in mourning for HM Queen Elizabeth II.
The names of officers who lost their lives over the past year were read out at the event by Liam Kelly, chair of the Police Federation of Northern Ireland. They are: PC Daniel Golding, of the Met; PC Craig Higgins, of Greater Manchester Police; PC Alex Prentice, of Northamptonshire Police, and PC Darryl Street, of the Civil Nuclear Constabulary.
Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who gave a reading during the service, said: “To all the officers who lost their lives while working to keep us safe, we thank you and we honour you.
“Their bravery and commitment to their duty was unfaltering – society owes them and their loved ones a debt we cannot repay, but it is one we will not forget.
“As Home Secretary I make a promise to give police the powers and tools they need to do their jobs safely.”
During the service, candles were lit by relatives in remembrance of officers throughout the country who have lost their lives – one from each of the four nations of the UK.
Representing Northern Ireland was Stephen Wylie-Young, son of Constable William Raymond Wylie QPM. Stephen was just six months old when his father was murdered.
Representing Wales was Sgt Lowri Davies, daughter of PC Terence John Davies, of Gwent Police.
Representing Scotland was George Barnsley, friend and colleague of DS William Ross Hunt, of Strathclyde Police.
And representing England was Kathryn Dumphreys, widow of PC Nick Dumphreys, of Cumbria Police.
There was silence as petals of remembrance, representing all who have lost their lives, descended from the gallery as the Last Post was sounded.
