Fed chair to honour fallen officers

17 August 2022

The chair of West Midlands Police Federation is preparing to jump on the saddle and take part in this year’s charity Police Unity Tour (PUT), an annual 180-mile bike ride that remembers police officers who have died in the line of duty.

The event, which is in its 10th year, sees members of the police family, including serving and retired officers and Specials, come together to raise vital funds for Care of Police Survivors (COPS), a national charity which supports families of officers who died while at work.

Rich Cooke, who is taking part in the ride for the third time, will once again be part of the West Midlands Chapter, as he joins colleagues from across the country to raise vital funds for charity.

“I really enjoy taking part in the event, it’s a great opportunity to bring together bobbies from across the country together and remember our fallen colleagues,” said Rich, who will be riding alongside Chief Superintendent Andy Beard.

He added: “And what’s brilliant is, you see all ranks coming together, as one. I’m not going to lie, I think this year will be a challenge for me. I’m definitely less fit and more overweight than the previous times, but I’m sure we’ll all power through. You can see how much it means to those who take part, as well as the families of those whose loved ones have died on duty when you meet them at the arboretum.”

During the event, each of those participating wears a wristband specifically dedicated to a fallen officer. Rich will be wearing a wristband in honour of PC David Green, a 20-year-old officer who was stabbed to death while on duty on 17 July 1975.

The event starts on Friday (19 August), with the final leg being in Staffordshire, as riders end the tour together riding into the National Memorial Arboretum, to mark this year’s COPS memorial service, which is taking place on Sunday (21 August).

“I know it’s been a busy time for forces in the West Midlands, having just been working at the Commonwealth Games but I hope as many people come out and support the riders as possible,” said Rich, whose family will be cheering him on from the sidelines.

“It’s essential that we continue to get behind this amazing charity, not only to honour police officers who continue to be missed by us all but for their families too.”

Last year, the PUT reached a huge milestone, having raised more than £1 million in total for COPS since the start of the tour.

This year’s PUT event has already received more than £50,000 in donations. Donate to Rich’s JustGiving page.