Police officers have been paying tribute to their fallen colleagues at a service near Lichfield.
The National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas hosted the 9th Care of Police Survivors (COPS) Service of Remembrance on August 7.
During the service, readings were given by survivors and the Roll of Honour for the seven officers who died on duty during the last 12 months was read out.
In her opening address COPS National President Sue Brace focused on the support that is given to police survivors. She stressed the importance of continued financial support in the current climate to ensure the continuation of the charity’s work.
David Whatton, Chief Constable of Cheshire Constabulary, delivered the closing address. He said:
“It is for the police service to recognise the need to come together to give this charity the support survivors need and to work more closely with each force to build a link with COPS, as demonstrated by Chris Sims and West Midlands Police. I would ask you all, when you return to your forces, to establish that link. “
The Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Inspector Phil Clare from the Metropolitan Police, who has raised thousands of pounds for COPS over the last few years with a number of fundraising initiatives.