The father of a young in service Surrey Police officer who lost his life on duty has set up a support group to make sure other bereaved families in the force get the help they need. 

Denis Gunn supports the families of fallen officers after he lost his son 18 years ago as part of Care of Police Survivors (COPS). 

Surrey PC Richard Gunn was 29 years old when he was killed on duty on 14 March 2004. His police car was in collision with a van as he responded to an emergency call. 

Denis Gunn and his wife Carol (pictured) have been keeping the memory of Denis’ son alive by hosting events in his honour and raising money for worthy causes. 

He has now set up SOLIS - Surrey Officers Lost in Service - with support from Surrey Police Federation and the force. 

Denis said: ‘Since my elder son Richard was killed on duty, I’ve tried to ensure he is not forgotten for he was, in my view, an exceptional, very caring person, with a great sense of humour and I miss him and think of him every day. 

‘It is impossible to explain how much it helps to be able to spend time with and speak to other people who have experienced a similar tragedy in their lives, and I am sure the support I received from those people got me through the darkest of days.’

Mel Warnes, Surrey Police Federation Chair, added: ‘I’ve previously seen that families have not been fortunate enough to have support from organisations owing to their loved ones not being on duty when they sadly died. 

‘Solis will be available to all families no matter the circumstances of their death. I am sure SOLIS will be successful and will offer support to those who need it.’ 

The PC Gunn Funn Runn will be held in PC Gunn’s memory at Mount Browne on 15 May. The 5km event will be open to children and adults of all abilities. 

For more information, contact mwarnes@surrey.polfed.org or denis.g.gun@gmail.com.