Police Unity Tour registration now open

6 February 2023

Registration for this year’s Police Unity Tour (PUT) is now open and West Midlands Police Federation members are being encouraged to sign up. 

Branch chair Rich Cooke, together with help from Chief Superintendent Andy Beard, is organising this year’s West Midlands chapter, and he hopes to see more members taking part than ever.

The 180-mile cycling event will start on Friday 28 July and end on Sunday 30 July, with the final leg being in Staffordshire, as riders complete the tour at the National Memorial Arboretum where Care of Police Survivors (COPS) will hold its annual memorial service.

“I’m honoured to be organising the West Midlands chapter of this year’s Police Unity Tour - with the much-needed help from Andy, of course,” said Rich, who will be taking part in the event for the fifth time. 

The event sees members of the police family including serving and retired officers and Specials come together to raise vital funds for COPS, a national charity which supports families of officers who died while at work.

“This year, what I really want is to see as many members from our branch as possible riding with me,” continued Rich. 

“Taking part in the PUT has become one of the highlights of my calendar. The ride brings together forces from across the country, all on one mission - to remember our fallen colleagues. It’s a really special occasion and I know it means a lot to the families of those we remember.

“It’s quite a special and moving time when the families of our fallen colleagues greet you when you complete the ride.”

During the event, each of those participating wears a wristband specifically dedicated to a fallen officer.

This year, the chapter is appealing for a total of 30 riders from across four forces: West Midlands, Staffordshire, West Mercia and Warwickshire. 

Rich added: “I want at least 10 of those riders to be from West Midlands.

“So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get on the saddle and start raising some much-needed funds for a great cause. The support the COPS charity provides really is invaluable, so if you aren’t able to take part yourself, please spread the word and support your colleagues.”

It costs £150 to sign up for the event, with a commitment to raise a minimum of £400. 

Find out more information or register for this year’s event.