PW_1_2023

IPA Section UK

Vol 68 No.1 2023

The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK

www.ipa-uk.org

A Ribbon of Remembrance See Page 11

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Contents Police World The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK

Vol 68 No.1 2023

Keeping You Informed 4–5 Keeping You Informed Clive Wood President of Section UK Professional Development 6 Münster on Patrol Jordan Smith, Sussex Branch 7 Can I Really do this? 8–10 Experiencing Sri Lanka – YPOS 2022 Sam White & Chris Duncombe, BTP Branch Feature Articles 11 A Ribbon of Remembrance Chris Morgan, Secretary Lincolnshire Branch 12–13 National Police Memorial Day Yvonne McGregor, Section UK VP & Canon David Wilbraham MBE 14 Making connections - An Italian Exchange Alex Williams, London North Branch Secretary Touring the Tower – Ceremony of the Keys Chris Charlton, Scarborough Branch 23–24 How the ESAC Emergency vehicles made it to Gambia Gurmit Kaur, Vice Chair Notts Branch & Chair 5 Region 25 A Visit From Over the Pond Alex Williams, London North Branch & Ken Davies, South Wales Branch 25 A Fairway to Go Yvonne McGregor, Section UK VP (Social & Cultural) 28 Say “Nuts” for the Camera Ian Glendinning, North East Branch 29 Fifty Years of Memories Peter May (and David King), Surry Branch News 18–20 News from around IPA Spotlight on the SIGs 17 A Yorkshire Walk Chris Charlton & Judith Smith, Scarborough Branch & Section UK Walking Group 26 One Tour Two Wars Mick Sharman-Davies, Motorcycle SIG Competitions 27 Crossword and Soduko WIN one of these books by Mark Thompson and Brian Allinson 30 Classifieds 31 Diary Alan Fenton: Northern Ireland, North West Branch 15 Downing Steet Visit John Paul O’Kane, BTP Branch 15 Palace of Westminster visit Alex Williams, Secretary - London North Branch 16

Editorial Neil Hallam e-mail: mail@neilhallam.com Deadline for article submission for Vol. 68 Edition 2, 2023 is 18 March 2023 Dispatched April 2023

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Advertising Michele Rai tel: (+44) 115 981 3638 e-mail: michele.rai@ipa-uk.org

General enquiries IPA HQ - Section UK, 1 Fox Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham. NG2 6AJ tel: (+44) 0115 981 3638 e-mail: mail@ipa-uk.org Printed by Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth,

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Hampshire PO6 1TR Graphic Design by BDS 21 Ltd Membership

Membership of Section UK is open to serving and retired police officers, specials, police staff and police volunteers as well as serving and retired members of HM Military Police forces, the NCA and warranted officers of Border Force. Associate membership is also available. The membership fee tapers during the year and our 2 Together offer allows two people to join for £20 at any time of year. Annual renewal is £32. For full details of membership requirements and to join the IPA scan the QR code. A guide to Region numbers 1 - Scotland Region 2 - Northern Ireland Region 3 - North of England including Isle of Man Region 4 - Wales Region 5 - Midlands Region 6 - Central and West London Region 7 - South & Southwest including the Channel Islands Region 8 - East Anglia Region 9 - Northern Home Counties and North and Northwest London Region 10 - Essex and East London Region 11 - Southern Home Counties and South London Region

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SIGs

Caravan & Camping SIG Defensive Tactics Group Family History Group

Motorcycle SIG Police Educators

Writers’ SIG Walkers’ Group Amateur Radio Section

Cover Photo Getting into the spirit at the Carvan SIG Jubilee Rally

Next deadline 18 March 2023 for publication April 2023

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ISSN No: 0032-261X

Keeping you informed

Keeping you informed

Welcome to this the first edition of Police World for 2023. How time flies. If you are a new member and are renewing your membership for the first time, thank you, there is so much to enjoy with membership of our wonderful Association. Other members who have been with us for many years, thanks also to you. I know many of you continue to enjoy these member benefits throughout the year.

F irstly, let’s look forward a little bit to the year ahead. We all know we will have an extra bank holiday in May, to mark the coronation of King Charles III. Luckily this does not clash with our National Council Meeting. More of that later. To mark the Coronation, we have agreed to commission a limited edition challenge coin, similar to those commissioned for Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal as our patron, and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. These make a lovely keepsake of the event, and will be available in the shop. Part of the proceeds from the sale of these challenge coins will go to our charity, which is the Thin Blue Line, working towards improved mental health for serving police officers . If you were not aware, our shop is now available online. I tested it the other day and it is very easy to use. There are a wide range of IPA gifts available. But do make sure you enter your IPA number as there are differences in the price between member and non-member purchases. If you would like to see something which we do not stock, just reach out to Vice President Yvonne McGregor, who holds the sociocultural portfolio. I’m sure she will be delighted to see what we can do. I told you last time I was representing you in Poland, to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Section. Helen and I had a lovely few days with excellent hospitality. The event was conducted near the city of Poznan. A highlight was a concert by the National Band of the Polish Navy, which was a real treat.

I also told you in the last edition, that I was attending World Congress in Spain. In brief, the decisions were; Section Russia remain suspended, Section Albania were welcomed, and Region 5 sticks of rock were a sweet- treat, unknown in many other sections. Oh, and I came back with chocolates and Covid for Helen! You may have seen just before Christmas we welcomed the International Executive Board (IEB) to our Fox Road HQ in Nottingham, to unveil a plaque to remember those members lost during Covid. I presented members of the IEB with a boxed Platinum Jubilee challenge coin, which they were all delighted to receive. The visit was also very special for our National Secretary General Steve Bretherton. International Secretary-General, May- Britt Ronnebro, presented Steve with a Certificate of Merit, recognising the tremendous work he has undertaken for the IPA over many years. Well done Steve. Also, on the run-up to Christmas, I was delighted to receive an invitation to the British Police Symphony Orchestra Proms night spectacular at the Birmingham Symphony Hall. In conjunction with this event Vice President Yvonne McGregor ran a prize draw for two further tickets to attend the event. I was delighted to be joined by Andy and Jo Gregory, from the West Midlands Branch. It was a fantastic evening, which I thoroughly recommend for future events. Looking forward to the year ahead , I just wanted to remind you of the member benefits open to you. I have mentioned before that membership of our lottery provides a biannual opportunity to apply for funding for personal development. This is run by our National Treasurer Bill Lloyd. I was very pleased to receive a bursary towards improving my shooting skills, and will give you further details of that in a future article. Remember Gimborn . The new 2023 brochure is now available. Branch Chairs or Secretaries can obtain printed copies for distribution from our helpful and friendly staff at Fox Road. As the event I hoped to attend last year was cancelled, I am scanning for the best course for 2023.

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Keeping you informed

NCM is also an opportunity for members with an interest in the running of the Association to come along as observers with your Region. I am always keen to see observers taking an interest in the association. It is also an opportunity for Regions to think about succession planning. It is also when, as your President, I have the honour to recognise members who go above and beyond either for Branch, Region or Internationally for their service to the association. If you know someone who you think I should acknowledge, then please take the time to write to me. You do not have to wait until June. I am happy to receive nominations all year round. In fact, I’ve just posted off a presidential award to a Branch, but I cannot mention the recipient yet until I can confirm it has been received.

Other member benefits . The Arthur Troop Scholarship (ATS), particularly for younger serving members, can result in an award of up to €2,500. This is an excellent opportunity. Here in the UK we supplement that with the Lincoln Award, with up to £1,000 available to attend personal development training. The Young Police Officers Seminar (YPOS) is now an annual event, and a fantastic opportunity to make new friends from around the world. There are also many other benefits and opportunities advertised throughout the year so do keep an eye on our latest news. If you have an email address sign up for the daily news report. This is a single email dropped into your inbox once a day with all the latest news in brief. And of course, we are also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Reddit, so there’s no reason to miss out on any of the fantastic opportunities available. I mentioned earlier our helpful and friendly staff at Fox Road. We have had a change there, and it would be remiss of me not to thank David for his time and wish him well in the future. I should also mention Hana, who has taken up a role in the International Administration Centre (IAC), following Elke and Daniel moving on, supporting the International Head of Administration (HoA) Stephen Crockard. Welcome Hana we all wish you well in the role. Looking forward to early June, we have our National Council Meeting (NCM) being planned by Region 8 in Peterborough. We are meeting in person this year before we go to a Zoom meeting in 2024. One of the reasons for meeting in person this year is that it is an election year. Three posts on the National Executive will be open to application. These are the Vice President Sociocultural, Vice President, Communication, and National Secretary-General. If you are interested in knowing more about any of these roles on the National Executive, please reach out to the current incumbent or feel free to drop me a line or a quick call.

Yours in friendship, Clive

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Professional Development

I had the opportunity to attend Münster in Germany with the IPA and nine other Police Officers from different countries. My journey began at London Heathrow where I flew to Düsseldorf, and then took a train to Münster where Elli, a local Police Officer picked me up and took me to the accommodation at the Police Training centre. Callum, a Netherlands officer, was already there. He asked reception if they had pushbikes, which they did, and we cycled into the city to explore and get to know each other. It was strange, although we had just met, we already had a bond and we exchanged experiences and stories and ate some local food. We were joined by Emil from Denmark, who also braved the cycling. When the other countries’ participants arrived, we cycled back to the training centre, where I met officers from Austria, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Luxembourg, France and Finland. The facilities were immense: a canteen, running track, football pitch and other amenities. Including Kegal (skittles) which we played in the evening to get to know each other. The next day we dressed in uniform to attend the local police university and welcome their class of 2022, who were beginning their three years training. It was nice to see other nationalities in their uniforms, the detail and quality was stunning. The group were disappointed that I didn’t wear my Custodian Helmet and were confused by why I had a white cap. We had breakfast at the university, and met Adi, who was the host of the event. He was passionate about Policing and the IPA, and was so excited we were there. We told the students about the IPA and what it had to offer. It was nice being able to tell them about opportunities like this event and getting to travel the world. We then visited their Police HQ where Philip, a German Police Officer, showed us around, spending time in the control room and major incident room. The functions and processes were like ours, and it was surreal being in this familiar environment. We went outside, where we were shown some of their fleet and had a demo of some of the equipment. They had everything needed for every eventuality, which was a shock as I was used to the minimal kit in the back of a British response car. We had lunch at Subway, confusing the locals with a group of Police Officers all in different uniforms. Next was the Hall of Peace museum, which originally served as a council chamber. The detailed Renaissance wood panelling from around 1577 was striking. The museum chambers took us through the Thirty Years’ War in Western Europe and the Eighty Years’ War between Spain and the Netherlands. The mayor even found time to welcome us to his beautiful city and provide us with a glass of wine as we looked around and signed the guestbook on behalf of the IPA. We had a lot of plans for this evening, and on the way to eat we stopped by the 12th century Münster Cathedral. After the restaurant, which was lovely, we had a guided tour from a Night Watchman. His character was so interesting, and he made it very entertaining. The commentary was in German, but Gilles from Luxembourg translated for me. I was told the Watchman was speaking in ‘Shakespearean’ styled language and he was telling everyone what the city was like in the past. The Watchman carried a rather interesting weapon, which he pointed at us throughout the tour, quite unsettling when you couldn’t understand what he was asking! Münster on Patrol 2022 Jordan Smith , Sussex Branch Jordan was a Sussex Officer at the time of this event. He has recently transferred to City of London Police.

The next day we attended Villa ten Hompel, a historical site which was the HQ of the National Socialist police force, and a centre for denazification and reparations in post-war Germany. It was a sombre, interesting World War II museum. We were taught about the role the Police played during the war. The two historians were incredibly enthusiastic and amazed about the IPA, and how we were all from different countries. This was our last night, and we were invited to Peter’s house. Peter is a serving officer and president of IPA Münster. He was so generous, we had a BBQ in his garden with some of his favourite Gin around the bonfire. The following day was our last. Although I was exhausted from such a packed week, it was sad to be going. We exchanged gifts and patches, and IPA Münster gave us a nice goody bag. We all bonded well as a group, and it was sad going our separate ways. I’ve now got friends in each of these countries, who have invited me to visit. Thank you IPA Münster for your incredible hospitality, see you soon.

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Professional Development

Can I Really do this? Alan Fenton , Northern Ireland, North West Branch Do you think you can study and work at the same time? If I can, then so can you! In 2019, I decided to push myself, and further my personal and professional development. With a keen interest in learning and leadership styles, I started researching courses to complement my Degree in Leadership & Management from Belfast Metropolitan College.

I wanted to gain a Masters degree in a subject that I could use and apply in work. Higher education is not commonplace in my family, or even my circle of friends, so I started to look at what was available. After endless hours searching online and speaking to university staff, I could not find anything that suited what I was looking for. I kept asking myself, “Why is this so difficult to find?”. Most courses were suited to people who were willing to give up their jobs and study full-time, and that just wasn’t me. I loved my job in policing and didn’t want it to end. Surely there had to be something that I could study part-time that would suit my needs. Then I found it. The MSc in Leadership and Innovation in the Public Sector, delivered by Letterkenny Institute of Technology and University of Ulster (In collaboration with the Office of An Taoiseach and the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister). With Ireland’s troubled politics, this course had the added draw of being the only North-South programme of its kind. I read testimonials on the websites of both institutions. I saw that members of An Garda Siochana had been on the course, but couldn’t see that anyone from the Police Service of Northern Ireland had completed the course. After numerous phone calls, emails, and conversations, I got the application form and started typing. It was worth a shot, and I had nothing to lose at that point. A few weeks later, I had a phone call from one of the course directors. I thought nothing of it. It was a conversation to find out my motivation for applying. I made jokes, we laughed at points in the conversation, and I felt awkward nearly the whole way through. Little did I realise until the end of the call that the Professor I was actually talking to was interviewing me. Yet again I thought my journey was over. Then later, much to my disbelief, an email of acceptance pinged in my inbox. I thought it was a joke. I rang admissions, and after talking to a very confused lady, my place was confirmed. Great I thought, and began wondering how I was going to pay for the course. I thought this would be another stumbling block on my road to success. But with some researching online, I applied for student finance and began to save money from my wages. But I knew it wasn’t going to be enough. Help arrived through an email from the IPA. They were offering bursaries to help people study and to further themselves. I started typing furiously to plead my case. I knew that my learning would not only help me, but would bring ideas that I could apply to work, and help the organisation. A few weeks later, I got a reply. I had been awarded the amount I needed to cover some of the cost of my travel, books, and literature. The bursary would allow me to live on more than cereal, or beans and toast. In January 2020, I attended my first class, with school bag on my shoulder and IPA pen in my hand. I still couldn’t believe I was there. The two days of intensive lectures were draining, and when I got home, I crawled into bed. I looked over at my bedside cabinet, and there was my trusty IPA pen I had been holding the past two days. The IPA believed in me to give me financial help, and I couldn’t let the organisation down. I knew I had to make my studying a success for me, and them.

Fast forward to 2022, and six modules plus a dissertation later, I completed assignments in: leadership, transformation, innovation, change & cultural management, policy design, performance management, and my dissertation. I had analysed my learning style, and managed my time with work and a global pandemic. I spent many evenings staring at my computer, sometimes staring out the window feeling like Carrie Bradshaw. I felt hopeful about my result, and then ping! The University had emailed my final result. In complete shock, I saw that I had obtained a distinction. I looked over at the coffee table, and there it was; my trusted IPA pen. It had been there for me the whole way through, much like the IPA members. The bursary was only a small part of the cost, but the value I got from it, and being part of the IPA was immense. The learning from the course has since helped me to be selected for the Fast Track programme offered by College Of Policing. An opportunity I can use to tell more people about the IPA.

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Experiencing Sri Lanka –YPOS 2022 Sam White , BTP Branch Last September Chris Duncombe and I travelled to Sri Lanka for the Young Police Officers (YPOS) Seminar 2022. The topic of the seminar was ‘Countering Modern Terrorism’ and this was a topic I was particularly interested in through working on my force’s Counter Terrorism Support Unit (CTSU). The Sri Lankan Police have broad experience in dealing with these topics, through the civil war which raged in Sri Lanka between 1983 and 2009. More recently, in 2019, Sri Lanka fell victim to a series of coordinated bombings from a local militant group, which killed 269 and injured over 500 civilians.

I briefly met Chris in Doha, before flying to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, where a friendly team of liaison officers took us to our hotel in the city. The other delegates came from as far and wide as South Africa, Canada, Israel, Kenya and several European countries. The first night we were taken to the Sri Lanka Police Officers Mess, where we were treated to a buffet dinner, music provided by the Police Band, dancing and several glasses of Arrack, the locally made (very strong) whiskey made from coconut flowers. Late in the evening, after chatting with the delegates and Sri Lankan senior officers, and a visit from the Minister of Security, we were taken back to our hotel for a much needed rest before starting the seminar the following day. Our Seminar, was held at the Special Task Force Training School, where we were treated to a traditional drum and dance display before the start of the lectures, along with a customary candle lighting ceremony which I was fortunate enough to take part in. The first lectures were delivered by experts in their field and were on topics such as the history of the Special Task Force (STF). The STF were formed in response to the civil conflict with the Tamil Tigers. The escalating violence and lack of training and resources for local police officers made it difficult dealing with what was essentially a guerrilla army. Since the war ended in 2009 the STF has reformed into a specialist operations unit, dealing with drug trafficking, terrorism and high-risk arrests. We had a lovely buffet lunch, and throughout the trip I very much enjoyed tasting the local Sri Lankan curries and spicy local dishes. The afternoon was taken up with other lectures, such as a very interesting input on the ‘prevention of radicalisation’, before we were taken to another hotel nearer to the training school, which gave us chance to socialise, relax and enjoy the local cuisine (and more Arrack).

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After this we headed to the ‘Temple of The Tooth’ in Kandy where it is said that a tooth from Buddha is securely held in a vault. This is a very spiritual and sacred place for Buddhists in Sri Lanka, who make up the majority of the population. Our final evening was spent in Colombo for the farewell dinner, where everyone had a final chance to socialise, enjoy the food and drink, and take in the atmosphere of the city by the riverside. Chris and I had the opportunity for a rare lie in (not together) the next morning before enjoying a final breakfast, saying our final goodbyes, and heading to the airport for our long, respective, flights home. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the trip. I have experienced a country I probably would not otherwise have travelled to. I found the beauty of the country unbelievable, and the Sri Lankan people genuinely warm, kind, and friendly. I would definitely like to go back in the future and explore more, and highly recommend anyone to do the same if they can. None of this trip would have been possible without the IPA UK section and IPA Sri Lanka section and I recommend anyone who is not a member to join. I have had the opportunity to experience things and meet people I never would have met, had I not been an IPA member and look forward to participating in more events in the future. The Sri Lankan IPA did an amazing job of putting on a first class seminar for everyone, despite the considerable logistics and planning which must have been involved, and so my final thanks is to them – “Bohoma Istouti”. Chris Duncombe (BTP Branch) added Given all the news about civil commotion over the past few months I was a bit apprehensive about going, but in the end I needn’t have worried. Sri Lanka was clean, inviting, and the people were friendly. There were some queues to petrol stations, and it was obvious that this isn’t a rich country, however there were no signs of disorder or upheaval. The IPA over there is a big deal, they have a two-story building as a dedicated

The morning of day two was taken up with a memorial parade to remember the members of the STF who had died in service during the civil war. This involved parading in uniform with our respective countries flags and taking part in a service to remember those who had lost their lives. It was a privilege to do this and something I will remember for the rest of my life. Further lectures followed, I particularly enjoyed learning about the history of Sri Lanka, the Ceylon people, and Buddhist culture. In the afternoon we drove back to Colombo to watch the 156th Police Day parade, after being invited last minute by the Minister of Security. The parade was a showcase of units within the Sri Lankan Police, and had displays from the ceremonial unit, dog section, Special Task Force and the amazing traditional dancers, who put on an unbelievable display, despite monsoon rain drenching them during their display. Medals were given to officers who had acted bravely in service, as well as an emotional posthumous medal given to the wife and daughter of an officer who was recently killed in service. After this the new Sri Lankan president arrived to give a speech thanking the police for their service. I had not seen a display like this before, and it just shows how highly regarded the police are considered within Sri Lanka. The next day was the day I was looking forward to the most, as we were taken back to the STF school for a showcase of their unique skills. This started with rappelling from high rise buildings to conduct armed searches, hostage rescue, and building reconnaissance. The confidence shown by the officers, who were both male and female, was amazing, and shows how training can overcome personal fears and anxieties if delivered correctly. We then watched their motorcycle unit conduct high speed drills with weapons. Motorcycles are used as it is easier for teams to get through jungle environments (where the unit excels) and access areas more quickly than a jeep or other vehicle. Next came the ‘killing house’, where hostage rescue drills were demonstrated. These drills were done extremely fast, and with live ammunition, which shows how much the teams practice over and over again to ensure each member of the team is proficient. We were then given the opportunity to conduct some live firing on the range with the MP5 and Glock pistols. Finally, we were given a display from the VIP protection team, who showcased their skills in protection both on foot and in vehicle convoys. The day finished with a presentation of certificates, awards and some group photos, before another night in our very nice hotel. On the final day we started especially early and were taken to an elephant sanctuary, where orphaned or injured elephants were taken to be cared for. We were lucky enough to see the new additions of elephant calf twins, who appeared to be very playful and mischievous. Some of us were also lucky enough to be able to feed fruit to some of the elephants. It’s hard to appreciate how magnificent and powerful these animals are, until they have their trunks wrapped around your arm trying to steal pineapple from your bowl.

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Professional Development

section, and I managed to get most of the cost of my flights back thanks to bursaries from the IPA. Overall, I was so impressed with the course, the hosting from the Sri Lanka Section and the country at large. It was beautiful, clean, friendly, and I want to go back. Now I understand why Arthur C. Clarke spent his life there. This is the last YPOS I will be eligible for, for everyone else I can’t say how much you should apply to go on one! 2023 is being hosted by New Zealand, then coming back to Europe after that.

reception and meeting location. On our first evening we were hosted for dinner at the Senior Police Officer’s Mess, a grand colonial mansion from the days of British Ceylon. We had the Police Band for music and a series of traditional dances and displays. The Guest of Honour was the Minister for Security (the equivalent to our Home Secretary), who invited us all to the Police Day Parade. We were hosted throughout the week by the Special Task Force (STF), a paramilitary unit of the Sri Lanka National Police. One of the perks of being hosted by the STF was that we were escorted in a heavily armed police motorcade everywhere we went, I’m not sure who enjoyed it more – us or the civilian coach driver. At the opening ceremony we all wore our ceremonial uniforms, I can confidently say that a winter weight police tunic is not suited to the jungle environment of 30°c and 100% humidity. We started our second day taking part in the STF Remembrance Ceremony, where they remember the 400+ STF officers who lost their lives during the civil war. It was a big honour to take part, and you can see the threads of colonial past weaved into modern Sri Lankan traditions. Some of the most recent attacks have been from homegrown Islamic terrorists, as opposed to Tamil separatists. I saw real parallels with what we have seen within the UK, and we were privileged to have high level speakers giving in-depth analysis and discussion about terrorism. Of particular interest was the international funding of terrorism, and the threat they posed by the return of people who had fought abroad in Syria & Iraq. Back at the STF training facility we had demonstrations of their specialist capabilities. I was impressed with their abseiling techniques, but have no desire to try for myself. I also enjoyed watching a demonstration of a hostage rescue by their SWAT team, in their SAS built kill house. They have a very different ethos to the UK; one would guess borne by their history fighting a well-armed and trained adversary. It was hard, fast, and aggressive - they were clearly demonstrating a no-nonsense approach to fighting and enemy casualties. The course, accommodation and food were covered by the Sri Lankan

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Article

A Ribbon of Remembrance Chris Morgan , Secretary Lincolnshire Branch Here in Lincolnshire, we are proud of our heritage, which includes being the birthplace of the International Police Association. This was founded in 1950 by a Lincolnshire Police officer, Arthur Troop. A rthur’s Police service began in 1936, in Lincolnshire . He then served through the second world war, which he described as “a barbaric war that was supposed to free mankind from on the Ribbon of Remembrance, whether it is a relative, ancestor, friend, crew or association.

The I.P.A. stone was “officially” unveiled at a short ceremony, led by the Chaplain of the Lincolnshire Police Rev. Tanya Lord, at the International Bomber Command Centre on Saturday 17th September 2022. All members were invited to attend this event, and members from across the Region attended, together with the General Secretary, Steve Bretherton. The words used by the Rev Tanya Lord were very appropriate, and both the Chair (Derek Canton) and The Secretary (Chris. Morgan) of the Lincolnshire Branch, were also involved. The short service finished with the Police Poem. The last Post and the Reveille were then played. At the conclusion, those present attended a light buffet lunch, and had the opportunity to chat with each other and enjoy the fellowship together. It was a lovely, moving morning, with all those present, being grateful of the opportunity to attend.

despotism and the need for further conflict”. If only! I think you all know the story from then on and the formation of this great organisation – The International Police Association. When HRH Princess Anne attended the IPA World Congress in May 2020, she reflected “the man from Lincolnshire ruthlessly pursued the arduous task of establishing The International Police Association by Service Through Friendship.” She went onto say, “Arthur Troop came through adversity, isolation and disinterest from further up the ladder than we can ever realise” The rest is really history! So, Lincolnshire can proudly say that they are the home of the IPA and it was fitting that the 2020 National Council Meeting was held in Lincolnshire, to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of our amazing organisation, which now has over 365,000 members in 65 countries. However, we all know what happened next, COVID 19 hit the world and as a result the planned 70th Anniversary celebrations had to be postponed. But Lincolnshire remained positive and in 2022 the postponed celebrations took place in Lincoln. Part of the event was for guests to visit the International Bomber Command Centre at Canwick. This went down very well. Especially as our Region had secured a stone in the Ribbon of Remembrance there. The Ribbon of Remembrance is an important and moving focal point for visitors to The International Bomber Command Centre, where they can remember, commemorate and honour their loved ones. Every stone represents a different story, a unique journey that will be preserved in history for future generations. Anyone can be commemorated

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National Police Memorial Day

Yvonne McGregor , Section UK VP I was honoured to represent Section UK at the National Police Memorial event in Belfast’s Waterfront Hall, on Sunday 25th September 2022. I was delighted that my husband David, who is also an IPA Member, was able to accompany me. National Police

W hen we applied to attend the event there was an option to visit the RUC GC / PSNI Memorial Gardens at PSNI Headquarters. We were taken by coach to the gardens, which were opened in 2003 by HRH the Prince of Wales (now King Charles III). We were met by some retired officers who gave us a very informative guided tour, including the history of the RUC, which was formed in 1922. In 1999 the RUC was awarded the George Cross in recognition of the sustained bravery of the Force, including its families. The force then became known as the RUC GC, and in 2001 it was renamed PSNI. The garden also references the support that Special Constables gave to the regular officers. In the “Area of Peace” you immediately feel a sense of tranquility and hear the soothing sound of the water feature. There are several granite tablets down one side of the gardens, that list the names of officers who died in service, along with those killed by acts of terrorism. One name I looked for was Superintendent Stanley Hanna. He was the IPA Regional Secretary, when he was murdered by the IRA on 3rd June 1979. For almost 40 years, No 1 Region (Scotland) has played No 2 Region (Northern Ireland) at golf for the Stanley Hanna Memorial Trophy. The Trophy was donated by his widow on condition that it must be played annually in Scotland, allowing IPA members from Northern

Police, who died suddenly on duty on the 14th March, 2022 aged 48. PC Darryl Street, Civil Nuclear Constabulary, who died in a collision on the 14th January, 2021. There were several readings and poems from different faiths, and towards the end of the service petals, representing fallen officers over the years, fell from the ceiling of the Waterfront Hall. I found this very moving. After the Service David and I met with Region 2 members at the IPA display stand and spoke to some of the attendees who stopped by the stall. Several Application Forms were given out and I hope many joined our great Association. As our flight home was not until late afternoon on Monday, David and I took the Open Top Bus Tour of Belfast. I hadn’t appreciated that the Peace Gates were still physically closed and opened by the PSNI at 7pm and 7am every day. Next year the service will be held at St David’s Hall, Cardiff on Sunday, 24th September 2023 and I recommend you attend if the opportunity arises.

Ireland to travel to Scotland, where they could relax and enjoy themselves. It was a very emotional visit, with our guides detailing some of the incidents where their colleagues were murdered. I have nothing but respect for those fallen officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. On Sunday morning we ventured out for a walk and by chance, met Region 2 members Catherine Connolly and Matt King, who were welcoming visitors attending the tour to the Memorial Gardens. The beautiful Waterfront Hall is alongside the River Laggan. The NPMD Patron is King Charles III, who was unable to attend due the recent death of Queen Elizabeth II. The service began with the Pipes and Drums of the PSNI, which is always a very moving experience. During the service the PSNI Ladies Choir sang, in which IPA Member Dianne Crockard is a member. The Police Male Voice Choir also sang. This year there four officers were commemorated by lighting a candle. PC Daniel Golding, Metropolitan Police, who died in an RTC on the 18th August, 2022 aged 46. PC Alex Prentice, Northamptonshire Police, who died after becoming unwell at work on the 26th April, 2022 aged 40. PC Craig Higgins, Greater Manchester

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National Police Memorial Day

Memorial Day 2022

Canon David Wilbraham MBE , Co-ordinator, National Police Memorial Day Secretaries of State and Police Chiefs joined a congregation of almost 2,000 at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall to remember officers who gave their lives in service, many in horrific circumstances. Family members participated in the service, which honoured fallen officers’ commitment, courage, and sacrifice. H ome 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.”

Richard Haigh, son of PC David Ian Haigh, North Yorkshire Police, who died 17th June 1982, found fatally wounded by colleagues. He was shot in the head at Norwood Edge Plantation near Harrogate. 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 United Kingdom. Representing Northern Ireland, Stephen Wylie-Young, son of PC William Raymond Wylie QPM, aged 25, Royal Ulster Constabulary George Cross. PC Wylie was shot dead, and his colleague fatally wounded when they were ambushed by terrorists as they checked a suspicious car in County Antrim. Representing Wales, Sergeant Lowri Davies, daughter of PC Terence John Davies, aged 34, Gwent Constabulary, who died of injuries received whilst he was cycling home after a tour of duty at Maindee, when he was hit by a stolen vehicle which failed to stop. Representing Scotland, George Barnsley, friend and colleague of DS William Ross Hunt, aged 56, Strathclyde Police, died 5th June 1983. Whilst attempting to arrest a man for serious assault DS Hunt was fatally stabbed when members of the suspect’s family attacked him and other officers. Representing England, Kat Dumphreys, widow of PC Nick Dumphreys, aged 47, who died 26th January 2020 having sustained fatal injuries when the police vehicle he was driving was in a single vehicle collision on the M6. Liam Kelly, Chair, Police Federation for Northern Ireland read the names of officers who have lost their lives during the past year – PC Daniel Golding, Metropolitan Police, PC Craig Higgins, Greater Manchester Police, PC Alex Prentice, Northamptonshire Police, and PC Darryl Street, Civil Nuclear Constabulary. There was silence as petals of remembrance, representing all who have lost their lives, descended from the gallery as the orchestra played

Chris Heaton-Harris MP, Northern Ireland Secretary, said: “The Government owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the brave men and women of the Police Service for their tireless work to keep the people of Northern Ireland safe. It is right and proper that we remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in their duty of protecting the community. We thank them, and service personnel from across the UK for their service and dedication.” During the service, prayers were said by family members, including Stephen Bromilow, father of PC John Edward Bromilow, Lancashire Constabulary, aged 23, who died on 18th August 1979 in a road traffic collision while escorting a prisoner. Karen Dodd, daughter-in-law, and Jemima Dodd, granddaughter, of Inspector Stephen Dodd, Metropolitan Police, who was fatally injured on 17th December 1983 when police received reports of a bomb inside a car parked outside Harrods. As officers began to investigate reports of the device it exploded. Stephen died a few days later from his injuries. Paul Slaine QPM, Royal Ulster Constabulary, was the driver of a police car attacked by terrorists. The observer in the car, Constable Colleen McMurray, died in the early hours of 28th March. Paul spent almost eight months in hospital. On 12th April 2000, he was chosen to accept the George Cross from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, on behalf of the Royal Ulster Constabulary.

‘Abide with me’ and the Last Post was sounded.

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Article

Making connections An Italian Exchange Alex Williams , London North Branch Secretary

In 2018 Faenza Police Station in Italy moved to their brand new HQ. During the office move, IPA member Ivan Samori found a beautiful ceramic plate from London North Branch, and wondered how this artefact came to be in their station. His retired colleagues told him that in 1978, a Twinning visit occurred between IPA Italy’s Ravenna Branch and the Section UK London North Branch. Ivan was inspired by this notion and set about making contact, leading to optimistic plans being made. COVID delayed putting their plans into action until July 2022. A fter four years in the planning , we finally met the Italian members at Stansted Airport. After a quick ride into through the city via the Tower of London and Fleet Street.

Sunday evening saw the London Summer Jamboree event bring together more than 50 IPA members. An impromptu outdoor street performance of flag waving and trumpet fanfare kick started the festivities. The highlight of the evening was entertainment by a fabulous magician, who stunned us with trickery and parlour magic. Our thanks go to all members who helped in any way to make the Twining event such a great success. IPA Ravenna are of course awaiting our arrival in Faenza.

central London, our 22 visitors were checked-in at the Civil Service Club, Great Scotland Yard. We enjoyed a relaxing afternoon and evening with some good old-fashioned pub food at the club. Friday saw branch member Tom Brazil, take us on a Blue Badge Walking Tour of China Town and Soho. Tom shared plenty of trivia and local history to keep us all on our toes. Both branches were kept energised with a 5-a-side football match hosted in Wellington Barracks during the afternoon. A well balanced game saw Ravenna emerge as winners with an 8-6 lead. Congratulations to all who participated and thanks go to branch member Dean Guidera for organising it. Saturday had a rather regal theme, starting with Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, followed by a trip to the Royal Hospital in Chelsea. Chelsea Pensioner Dave Godwin, gave us a very interesting insight to life there. Our visit culminated in a flag waving performance by Ivan and Marco who are national champions in Italy. On Sunday the group sped off to Greenwich on the Uber clipper boat for a sight-seeing day out. Alex Williams, guided everyone around the Old Naval College, the Queen’s House, Greenwich Park and markets before weaving our way back

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Article

Downing Street Visit John Paul O’Kane , BTP Branch After several years of IPA membership, I had never really taken advantage of the many opportunities that are available to members. Then, a few weeks ago, Alex Williams, the London Reception Officer, helped me to add something extra to an upcoming weekend trip to London with my wife and daughters. T he plan for our trip started with a visit to Harry Potter Studios on Friday, then tickets for Matilda on Saturday evening were quickly added to our to-do list. Having seen pictures of colleagues in uniform, standing at the doorway of 10 Downing Street, I thought I would enquire about the possibility of a visit to the famous street. Alex replied very quickly and said to leave it with him, but given the short notice, it might not be possible. A few days passed, and as it turned out, they were turbulent days in the world of Politics. Then, out of the blue two days before we were due to leave, I received an email from Alex saying that we were booked in. Palace of Westminster Visit Alex Williams , Secretary - London North Branch London North Branch’s recent social gathering saw members enjoy a fabulous tour of the Palace of Westminster. This really was a most prestigious occasion. We were brilliantly hosted and escorted by a serving Police Sergeant. T he tour took us behind the scenes , literally walking the corridors of power, where magnificent artworks and sculptures were seen. Our route took us through the new development of the buildings via underground passages, and to the Great Hall (the oldest part of the palace). The House of Commons was a real high point, where we learned all sorts of trivia and history about the chamber. The Lords was closed but we did ‘peer’ through into the chamber. The police sergeant chaperoned us through to the inner sanctum of the building where the public aren’t allowed. We all agreed that the tour could have continued for another few hours, such was the intrigue and excitement we experienced. After the tour, we visited the Civil Service Club for a well-earned pint and a bite to eat. In addition, a voluntary donation from members towards the tour allowed us to raise £50 for the London North Branch funds, which will be used to fund travel bursaries and subsidise future social gatherings for the benefit of all branch members. Keeping it to myself for the time being, we set off for London on Thursday 20th October, flying from Edinburgh to Gatwick. As we arrived, the news broke that Liz Truss had resigned. Oh well, I thought, that’s the visit scuppered. At least I hadn’t told anyone and got their hopes up. We visited Borough Market and other sites on Thursday, Harry Potter on Friday and still no word to say that the visit was cancelled. I had told my kids that I would take them to Downing Street on Saturday morning, as

they might be interested to see it in person. It had been on the news a lot over the previous week.

As we walked up Whitehall, there was a large crowd of protestors, media and tourists all standing outside the gates looking down towards No.10. I joked that they must have heard that we were coming, and I got a look that only daughters can give their Dads. We got to the gates, and I approached one of the Officers on duty and told him why we were there. A few minutes later, we were ushered past the crowd, equally to the confusion of the crowd, and my daughters. We passed through security and were met by a very friendly and knowledgeable officer, who gave us the history of the street, the buildings and many of the famous past residents. What I assumed would be a quick 30 second photo opportunity became a 25-minute lesson on orange bricks, bear and dog fights, Henry VIII’s tennis court and definitely no lockdown parties. The officers couldn’t have been more welcoming or friendly towards my family, and we now have some very special photos and memories of a wonderful trip to London.

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Article

A Yorkshire Walk Chris Charlton & Judith Smith , Scarborough Branch & Section UK Walking Group

Our inaugural IPA Walking Weekend took place during the last weekend of September. The Scarborough based weekend involved two 10Km walks, the first on Saturday, in and around Whitby, and the second on Sunday, around the streets of Scarborough. Both walks are registered as Permanent Trails (PTs) with the British Walking Federation (BWF). O ver the course of three days , 36 people from the IPA and the BWF took part in the events that made up the weekend.

Saturday ended with another social evening at The Rivelyn Hotel. After a magnificent hot buffet supper of various pies, chips and peas, there was a walk themed quiz and a raffle. Although there were some jeers directed towards the quizmaster Chris Charlton, everybody appeared to have fun and enjoy the evening. The quiz was won by Ken and Catherine Stuart (Cheshire Branch) and Adrian and Tracy Bennison (Scarborough Branch) who shared a large tub of chocolates around the room. The Sunday morning walkers set off from The Clock Tower on Scarborough’s South Cliff at various times, staggered to suit breakfast arrangements. This walk took them through South Cliff and across the infamous Valley Bridge into

We started on Friday evening with a reception and introductions, in addition to enjoying an excellent Italian style hot buffet meal and a few drinks. The first walk started outside Whitby Railway Station. The weather looked bleak but after an initial light shower of rain, it stayed fine for the rest of the day. The route passed alongside the River Esk and the Whitby to Middlesbrough & Pickering railway line, where some walkers saw one of the steam locomotives from the North York Moors Railway. After visiting the village of Ruswarp, the journey followed the Monks Trod, a stone path said to be an ancient trail used by monks, back to Whitby where it first criss-crossed, then followed the former Whitby to Scarborough railway line which is now a cinder track. The views of Whitby Abbey from the 13 arch Larpool Viaduct were amazing. Heading towards Whitby Abbey, the route descended before rising steeply to the Abbey Headland and Whitby Abbey, a building majorly destroyed during the Dissolution of Monasteries but made famous by Bram Stoker’s book ‘Dracula’. Descending the famous 199 Whitby Abbey Steps, the walk continued to the old town and harbourside passing the former home of Captain James Cook. The walk ended back at Whitby Railway Station and, since there are no prizes for coming first, some walkers chose to stop enroute, sampling the local delights of fish and chips, ice cream or beer from Whitby Brewery, while others explored Whitby Abbey.

Whitby

Whitby 199 steps

Whitby

Scarborough’s Police Box

The view from Larpool Viaduct

Ice cream in Scarborough

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