PW_1_2024

IPA Section UK

Vol 69 No.1 2024

The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK

www.ipa-uk.org

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

Vol 69 No.1 2024

Keeping You Informed 4–5 Keeping You Informed Clive Wood President of Section UK Professional Development 6–7 Flensburg on Patrol Tom Radford, Hampshire Branch 8

Editorial Neil Hallam e-mail: mail@neilhallam.com Deadline for article submission for Vol. 69 Edition 2, 2024 is 15 March 2024 Dispatched May 2024

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

Meat, Potatoes & Vodka: Counter terrorism in Poland “Mike”, 1 Region, Scotland

9 The Defensive Tactics Group (IPA-DTG), Special Interest Group Rob Stenhouse, IPA-DTG Chair 10–11 EIN, ZWEI, POLIZEI: German Exchange Program 2023 Ryan Fitt 11 Frankfurt Visit Amitav Sarkar, West Midlands Branch Feature Articles 12 Liverpool Friendship Week

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

Julian Dearden, Liverpool & Merseyside Branch, Chairman Liverpool Friendship Week (A visitor’s perspective) John Amos, London South Branch

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A Double Golden, in Canada Peter Martin, Sussex Branch

In Section UK, the membership comprises serving and retired Police Officers, Special Constables and members of Police Staff employed by a Chief Constable or other appropriately designated Chief Officer. We also now offer associate membership. The Section has a unique mixture of police personnel who are still serving, retired, or in some instances, who have voluntarily resigned from the police service. For details of who can join Section UK, go to www.ipa-uk.org/Join-Us Join the IPA from £20. Visit the website to learn about our promotional offers. Annual renewal is £33. To apply either visit www.ipa-uk.org or request an application form from the general enquiries team. 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

Memories of Minden Brian Deacon, BTP Branch

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The HERo Project Karen Duckworth, Section UK VP (Social / Cultural) Walking in the Shoes of Another Hannah Wheeler QPM, Thames Valley Branch A month in the life of Scarborough Branch Chris Charlton (Secretary), Scarborough Branch

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SIGs

Caravan & Camping SIG Family History Group Motorcycle SIG Police Educators Writers’ SIG Walkers’ Group Amateur Radio Section

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News 18–23 News from around IPA Spotlight on the SIGs 14

International Motorcycle Rally 2023: North Wales Paul Firth, Chairman, UK Motorcycle SIG Section UK Motorcycle SIG Paul Firth, Chairman, Section UK Motorcycle Group Walking in Harrogate and Temple Newsam Chris Charlton, Scarborough Branch

Cover Photo Front Cover - Policing the Autobahn, Josh Preston

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Competition 25

Crossword and Soduko WIN one of these books by Ian Allan and John Dabrowski

30 31

Classifieds

Diary

Next deadline 15 March 2024 for publication May 2024

Editor’s Note: Thank you for the impressive number of articles you have sent in recently. I have had to hold over several for future editions.

POLICE WORLD Vol 69 No.1, 2024

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ISSN No: 0032-261X

Keeping you informed

Keeping you informed

Welcome to Police World 1 of 24. Just before Christmas, VP Chris Duncombe told us that we had achieved the 8,000 members milestone. Thank you to all of you involved in this great achievement. There really is so much to offer being a member of the IPA, and to see us break the 8,000 members barrier after quite a challenging time with membership was something to shout about.

Y ou may have noticed a slight increase in your subscriptions. We had not raised subscriptions for many years, and had to put them up with quite a bump the other year. So National Council agreed little and often was a better approach. Hopefully you won’t notice but, if you do wish to comment, please write to the national treasurer Bill. I have a lot to cover in this edition. I’ll start by mentioning the excellent number of professional exchanges, taking place and being reported upon. Again, in the hands of VP (Professional), Chris Duncombe. Well done Chris and thank you to all those who have benefited or hosted an exchange program. If you have ever been the recipient of a scholarship or study award from the IPA, one of your alumni suggested it would be good to meet socially, and discuss the learning and adventures you have collectively enjoyed. I am completely supportive of this notion and invite you, if you are one of the members who has previously enjoyed a scholarship or study award, to contact VP (social/cultural) Karen Duckworth, who will arrange something in our special anniversary year of 2025. Speaking of 2025 that brings me nicely into our request to Her Royal Highness, the Princess Royal. I wrote recently asking if she would be willing to be our patron again next year, and I’m delighted to tell you that she has agreed. This is a real privilege for our association, and as an honorary life associate member, it will be great to have her Royal patronage throughout the year. I’m also delighted to see how many friendship weeks are being advertised and planned by regions around the country to help in the celebrations for 2025 so well done and thank you to all of you. Last time I told you, I had undertaken to personally write to all members who reached milestone membership of the Association, but that if you thought I had missed you to let me know. Well, nothing is perfect and my sincerest apologies together with a belated card went to Iian Wylie of Region 2 who wondered if theirs had been lost in the post. My mistake and my sincere apologies I will try harder this year.

Thinking about members with a significant number of years in the association, it gave me enormous pleasure to meet with my old boss, John Penlington and his wife Sylvia, as we went out for lunch at a local garden centre. I include this in my report really just to embarrass John, who was my Inspector many years ago when I was a Custody Sergeant. He was a fantastic boss, who even tried to take the blame when I lost a prisoner. As it turned out, the Chief Superintendent wasn’t having any of it, and I received an entry in the divisional caution register! Helen and I had a wonderful visit to Region 2, to join in the celebrations for the 70th Anniversary at Stormont Castle. Thank you to Regional Chair, Deirde Mahony, and all the team. An amazing £1,000 was raised for the Thin Blue Line. I won the raffle with 48 bags of the best crisps ever (or so I’m told). Sadly, my carry-on bag was not sufficient to bring them home, so there were in fact many raffle winners. My visit to the Tower of London to meet the Yeoman Warders and present them with certificates and a small gift of a tie or scarf, was very well received. In fact, the Chief Warder immediately offered a donation to our Thin Blue Line charity, for which we are of course, enormously grateful. We remain grateful to the warders, for the time spent giving tours of the tower, the opportunity to witness the Ceremony of the Keys, and of course, have a drink in the beefeaters private bar. I told you last time I was visiting Cyprus to celebrate their 40th anniversary together with National Treasurer Bill Lloyd. We spent a very pleasant few days with our good friends from Cyprus. This was followed by a short visit to Montenegro to celebrate their 10th anniversary. They are a young, small section, but goodness me, we had a fantastic couple of days. I also attended Gimborn for the Gimborn conversations. A worthwhile meeting with other presidents, and young members from around our area. Somehow, I ended up a referee/guide/helper at the IPA National clay pigeon shoot, which was held in Cambridgeshire. Together with our sponsors, Giles Marriott guns, we had an excellent day, even if the weather was a little against us.

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A wonderful evening in Belfast with Region 2

In other bits and bobs. I attended a Branch coffee morning, so thank you to Branch Chair, Tony Collins, and Treasurer Fred Rankin for organising it. I’ve also been at Fox Road hosting Constanze and Timo Bartholme from Munich, who I met at the Northern European (NEF) Forum meeting earlier in the year. As I write this article, I am working closely with the staff in the International Administration Centre (IAC), Hana and our wonderful Lisa. The new International President Martin Hoffmann from Austria has requested the first visit of the IEB be to Fox Road, before Christmas. Looking to the year ahead. Your national board has recently held its annual budget meeting. Thanks to Bill Lloyd for steering us through, determined to make as many member benefits available throughout the year. I should mention that the Gimborn 2024 program is now out and that those of you who have an interest to attend should contact VP Chris Duncombe to secure funding for your place. Thank you again for renewing your membership of this wonderful association, if there is anything you would like us to organise or to arrange for you then please I’m always happy to receive suggestions in the meantime, until next time, In Friendship. Clive Wood, Section UK President

World Congress was held in Athens. I was unopposed for the position of Head of Administration on the International Executive Board (IEB). I’m honoured to say I have now taken on that role. My intention is to remain President of Section UK, at least for the time being, whilst we see what is involved. At World Congress Section UK supported Section Ireland with a motion to the IEB to provide funding for the HERO project. I’m delighted the Congress voted in favour of this initiative, and I look forward to being able to report more on that in the future. At World Congress, the outgoing International Board made several awards and presentations, and it was my great honour to collect awards on behalf of members of Section UK. The Bronze Medal was awarded to former National Treasurer Fred Boyd, for his work as the International Internal Auditor, a post he retains. Rob Stenhouse also received a Bronze Medal, for his work with the Defensive Tactics Group. Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to former National Secretary General, Steve Bretherton, VP Karen Duckworth, and Associate Member Bernard Rix. Well done to all! Certificates of Recognition were awarded, to former Secretary General Steve Bretherton, former VP Sean Hannigan, and Stuart Rivers for his work on the Police Educators Forum, together with me. The UK were presented with a technology award. Thank you to VP Colin Hutt for the submission. Nice that Colin was able to accept the award on our behalf. Finally in the international photo competition, first prize in the Police category, went to Emlyn Stevens for his photograph of a night police helicopter. Congratulations to all the recipients who have all been invited to Fox Road to meet the new International President in December. More next time. Since World Congress, I appear to have been doubly busy. I attended Iasi in Romania for their National Congress, and presented the President, Mihai Tartareanu, with a bobby helmet and quaich. Having never been to Romania before I can only say, what a wonderful country it was and how welcoming the members of IPA Romania were.

Clay shooting event in Cambridgeshire

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Flensburg on Patrol Tom Radford , Hampshire Branch An opportunity to spend a week in Germany for IPA Flensburg on Patrol, immediately piqued my interest, and so I am grateful I was to be selected. I live and work in the Bailiwick of Guernsey, as a response police officer, so have a keen interest in community and the relations within. With that in mind, what better than to spend a week in another European country, connecting with other officers from around the continent. It was a unique chance to share ideas, and discuss our own viewpoints on policing in the modern world. F lensburg, Germany’s northernmost town , is on the Danish border, in “Do you mind if I turn the A/C off?” muttered apprehensively by a chilly probationer, so desperately not wishing to annoy their fellow shift members during a midweek night turn.

the state of Schleswig-Holstein. In fact, the Bundeswehr cold war era barracks, in which we were accommodated, was situated just across the water from the Nordic country. The barracks stay was an experience in itself, and I appreciated the perplexed look that the German naval officers gave me as I walked past them, dressed in my No1’s and Custodian helmet. Every morning, we would exchange a casual “Moin!” with each other, asking no further questions. If you travel to Germany, (and I thoroughly recommend it) in this region’s dialect, ‘Moin’ is the standard greeting. This is compared with the regular ‘Guten Tag’ or ‘Hallo’ for the rest of the country. Our organisers for the trip were Jan and Tore, who are police officers based in Flensburg, and I can’t thank them enough for the experience they put on for us. To kick it all off, we had a wonderful welcome reception at Flensburg’s town hall and were told about the town by Stadtpräsidentin, Susanne Schäfer-Quäck. This was followed by an introductory speech by deputy head of police Marco Jäger. A traditional and very tasty buffet was then provided, which was a good opportunity to mingle and meet everyone. Officers came from all over, which included Ireland, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, Denmark and Norway, along with two from a neighbouring German state. After the ceremony, we were treated to a tour of the region’s control centre, and had an insight into what happens when a call is received, along with the dispatch process thereafter. We then moved onto their new, unopened centre. It’s the first time I’ve seen individual desk spaces that have their own controllable microclimate systems. No more will you need to hear the words

Continuing through the week, we spent a full day at the training academy for the Landespolizei of Schleswig-Holstein. This is a state-of-the-art complex, complete with a large dojo, firearms course, and specialist areas for all kinds of specialised learning and development requirements. Our tour was conducted by one of the leaders of the centre, Sven, and the best way to describe this fellow, is that he is probably the only one who could finally beat Chuck Norris, at his own game. During a demonstration of self-defence tactics, he allowed me to come at him with a knife, where in less than a moment’s notice, I was gracefully disarmed, and treated to a view down the barrel of his training pistol. After lunch, some scenarios were put on for us by an arrest squad. They gave a little knock with the big red key, and before one could blink, two suspects were in cuffs and efficiently escorted off the premises. There was a brief pause in the action, where we spoke with members of the state’s search and recovery department, and witnessed a bird’s eye view of ourselves on the screen of a drone operator’s monitor. These operational needs are of extra importance to Flensburg and the surrounding localities, due to its location between two coasts, along with the many islands that are dotted around. No day would be complete without a little riot to settle the nerves. A beautiful array of water canon options was displayed for us, before a warning was announced from the speakers of a massive vehicle, from which the water

Flying a Plane

Foot Patrol

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was dispersed. The vehicle was a great machine, twice the size of a Dennis fire engine. As acceleration commenced and with two foot-teams either side jogging forward, it wasn’t long before the onlooking rioters were sufficiently soaked and were politely moved back from their initial positions. It was time to finally patrol the streets of Flensburg and meet its people. We split up into three groups, before moving out on foot, where the local population were suddenly introduced to a variation of colours and badges, proudly being worn. It became quite a game for some curious citizens to guess our country of origin. Interestingly, the Irish officers were confused with being Spanish, and the Belgians were thought to be French police, but of course, I was never once confused with another nation. Yes, you guessed it... the Custodian gave it away. It was overall a pleasant and gloriously warm, sunny day, with smiling faces all round. Perhaps, apart from the odd citizen, who received a ticket for riding their pedal cycle in the pedestrian only zone. We took a few hours of R&R back at the barracks, then later in the evening, we were collected and travelled to the now familiar control centre. Here we had a quick briefing for a traffic operation, in which everyone was excited to take part. It was Saturday night, and the plan was a drink driving offensive. Each of us foreign nationals were deployed with a pair of traffic officers, which made up around a dozen or so separate vehicle units. I was paired with Morten and Ulf, and we were assigned a patrol area in an outer suburb of Flensburg. Once on the road, it wasn’t long before we made our first vehicle stop and from then on, we continued to have various interactions with the public. There were certainly some highlights of the duty, which included a vehicle stop containing four male teenagers. I won’t forget too soon the look of surprise on one of the passengers, who had suspiciously red eyes and slowed facial movements. Once stopped and the traffic guys having initially engaged, I approached the side of the car in British uniform, I leant through the window and gave the best pronounced “Good evening gentlemen” I could. The reaction to me, was just priceless, and resembled that of a rabbit in headlights. My guess is the lad probably thought that whatever he had consumed, was a lot stronger than usual. Another highlight of the night was our mini pursuit, where we screamed along in our unmarked Vito van, with the distinctively German two-toned sirens wailing away. We were attempting to catch a speeding motorcyclist and luckily once on its tail, it stopped for us. Morten and Ulf spoke with the driver in a robust, but polite manner and carried out some stringent checks. A job well done. Now it was time to head back in for refs, following which, a static police control was to be setup. Once the static control was in place, we stopped multiple vehicles and checks were conducted. Towards the end of the shift, our control was interrupted by a drunk male stumbling along in a field. We found out after some investigation that he had unfortunately walked an hour past his intended turn off. Drawing to a close, we were out in the Police aircraft, where I must have given the impression that I knew how to fly a Cessna 172. Shortly after take off, I took the controls, to fly in a circle above the picturesque and historically rich town of Flensburg, giving the two Irish passengers in the rear, a slightly frightening, but most delightful air tour. On the final day, it was a great pleasure to visit the city of Kiel and the water police. We checked out their large patrol boat and took a RIB out for a spin

On foot in Flensburg

in the harbour. This was finished off with a delicious lunch and just before leaving the city, we bumped into the Prime Minster of Schleswig-Holstein. Needless to say, it was a wonderful trip and one I hope to experience again. I encourage all officers to apply for this kind of event, should the opportunity arise. I want to thank IPA Section UK and my local branch (Hampshire) for assisting in arrangements. Jan, Tore, Hartmut and all the Schleswig Holstein Polizei, again a big thank you to you all, and for all the effort that was put into making this happen. Lastly, thank you to the Guernsey Police, for authorising my attendance and understanding the huge benefit this experience has provided.

Water Police

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Meat, Potatoes & Vodka: Counter Terrorism in Poland “Mike”, 1 Region, Scotland

A t Krakow airport, I was met by a man with a massive IPA Poland flag and matching t-shirt. Andrezj, or Andy, is a serving Colonel in the Polish Anti-Terror unit. Unfortunately, he didn’t speak much English, but we managed a conversation about his love of Scotland. There were IPA delegates from Kenya, Brazil, Serbia, Romania, Israel, France, USA, UK and even two people from Ukraine. We were taken to a traditional Polish restaurant in Krakow Old Town for dinner. Now I am quite a fussy eater, but Poland was my ideal place to eat, everything is either meat or potatoes. We then took a walk around the Old Town to burn off the massive dinner we had just eaten. On Monday, we went back to the Old Town, this time for a guided tour with an English speaking guide called Ewa. She met us in the main square before leading through the history of Krakow, up to the Wawel Hill, where the Castle and Cathedral are to be found. In the afternoon, we visited the Aviation Unit of the Polish Police in Krakow, spoke with the Pilots, and had a look around the Polish PZL W-3 helicopter. The helicopter is over 30 years old, but the internal workings have all been replaced over the years, and it is practically a modern helicopter. On Tuesday we visited the Wieliczka Salt Mine, on our way to our next accommodation in Zakopane. The Salt mine is 113 metres underground, complete with a cathedral that hosts weddings. On Wednesday, we enjoyed a relaxed day walking in the mountains above Zakopane, then touring a few famous churches. On Thursday we departed Zakopane for Uroczysko, and the IPA house near Jelenia Gora, which was a six hour journey. This was broken up with a stop at the Police headquarters in Wroclaw, where we were greeted by the Commander of Wroclaw district, Superintendent Wesolowski. In October 2023, I visited Poland, at the invitation of the Uroczysko Anti-Terror Section of the IPA. Having never been to Poland before I didn’t know what to expect. I had a great week, with excellent people, good food, interesting places and the occasional Vodka.

The IPA House

We then travelled onto the IPA House. This is like a fairytale lodge, high in the mountains. We nearly didn’t make it up the rough track, and everyone had to get out and push the minibus. We met Kiki, the massive Alsatian guard dog, there to deter dangerous wild boar from venturing near the house. At the IPA house we were greeted by over 100 IPA Poland members lining the driveway, who clapped and cheered as we got off the buses. We then had a feast (yes;, meat, potatoes, vodka and beer) which went late into the night. Saturday was our last full day in Poland, and the day to celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the IPA Poland, Uroczysko Anti-Terror Section. In the morning, we attended a talk on the Polish Anti-Terror unit’s history, capabilities, and activities. During the afternoon we attended a ceremony in the gardens of the IPA House. We then had the final feast, for which I changed from my uniform into my kilt. This was an excellent trip, learning not only about the Polish Anti-terror unit, but about Polish culture (and other cultures) along the way. Wladyslaw and his family (Anja and Rosa) were gracious and kind hosts, and did everything to make our stay comfortable and enjoyable.

I have only been an IPA member for two years, and recommend joining so that you can experience trips like this, and make contacts from around the world. I’ve already been invited to Kenya and New York City, through connections made on this trip. Mike has asked that he only be referred to as Mike from Scotland, rather than his full name, due to his current policing role.

The Nysa Sausage Van in Krakow

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The Defensive Tactics Group (IPA-DTG), Special Interest Group Rob Stenhouse, IPA-DTG Chair In our 10th anniversary year, I thought I’d bring our group to the fore by telling you all about our journey and maybe inspiring others to join. To introduce myself, I am one of the founders of the Group. I retired from North Wales Police in 2018 after 27 years. Previously I had served 11 years in the Royal Marines. I worked on response, Firearms and CT, but more importantly, I was a Firearms Instructor and Personal Safety Trainer. For a long time, I have been fascinated with the subject of how to keep myself and my colleagues safe whilst on patrol. A basic question, how do you prepare people for the reality of violent confrontations, without exposing them to real violent confrontations? The answer, I believe lies in reality-based training. Every year we very positive feedback, with some stating that it was the most effective training they had ever received. This included officers who were from highly specialist teams.

teach a Police Street Survival course in Gimborn. Firstly, we introduce officers to techniques that we believe will work. As a community, we select or develop techniques that are; easy to teach, easily learnt, easily mastered, easily remembered under pressure, and effective. We do this by using our collective experience of violent confrontations, and combine this with our knowledge of the effects of combat stress on the human body (perceptual distortion, parasympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system). We then try to train in context, the techniques are taught in uniforms, outdoors or inside normal rooms (not gyms), on hard ground, using duty equipment with minimal padding. In other words, trying to recreate the combat arena. The teaching follows a simple to complex format, that progressively leads from simple drills to complex realistic scenarios. This year at Gimborn International Conference Centre in Germany, we concentrated on immersing the delegates in basic drills that led them to high stress scenarios, in which we were able to recreate situations which engaged their sympathetic nervous system. The five tasks we concentrated on were knife defence, weapon retention, decision making, critical bleed, and an unarmed assault. The delegates absolutely embraced the training, worked hard and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. All of them provided

We also try and engage with experts from industry to enhance our training experience. Previously we have had Axon (Taser) who provided a very extensive training day, which included the opportunity to get tasered ‘ride the five,’ which consists of enduring a five second shock. Something you just can’t experience in the UK these days. This year we were joined by Chiron and pressure tested their flagship product, the X1 High-Impact Training Armour. It’s a highly protective, full-coverage training armour system, designed to withstand high levels of impact force and speed to vital targets including the head, neck and chest from blunt weapons during close-quarter combat (CQC) training. Not only did this give our delegates the opportunity to hit with their batons and firearms with the maximum amount of power. It also provided a great immersive experience in scenarios. Truly a unique experience. One of our trainers, Chris Duncombe (your very own vice president) gained his instructors qualification, by wearing the suit over two days as a role player. This is one of the benefits from taking part in the group’s activities, gaining experience, achieving qualifications and CPD, making new friends and expanding your knowledge and exploring what’s out there.

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EIN, ZWEI, POLIZEI German Exchange Program 2023 Ryan Fitt In our last edition, Andy Weinand gave his account of an IPA Exchange Programme, with the Police in Cologne. This time, his colleague Ryan Fitt adds his experiences. We also hear about Cologne’s Pia Mack and Lars Matuschka, making the return exchange to London.

I n August 2023, the two serving Met Officers travelled to Cologne, in Germany, to take part in the first exchange program set up between IPA 9 Region and IPA Verbindungsstelle Siegburg. The program saw Ryan and Andy spend four days hosted by German officers from the local Siegburg Polizei, and engage in a range of professional and social activities. (equivalent of the Commissioner) for the Rhein Sieg Kreis Polizei. Andreas had been one half of creating the exchange, along with IPA London Reception Officer (Serving Met Officer) Alex Williams. Much of their programme, including visits to the Bundespolizei HQ, GSG9 Counter Terrorism Unit and the local Siegburg ‘brauhaus’ or brewery, is told in Andy’s account. A highlight for our un-armed officers, was training with a Firearms Instructor, leading into live round target practice and hostage situation scenarios, something that the officers probably wouldn’t get to encounter outside of the exchange program Ryan and Andy were hosted by Andreas Piastowski, the Leitender Polizidirektor

Station, where Alex Williams gave them a tour of the station, its various units, custody suite and vehicle fleet. With the recent refurb of Charing Cross, the officers could see the station through the ages, and were given a history of local policing and policing within the Met. After the station tour, Pia and Lars were taken back to their host families for the evening. Next day, Pia and Lars visited Bishopsgate Police Station for an insight into the City of London Police. An IPA member serving in the CoLP, took the pair on a ride along around the square mile, explaining the role of a CoLP officer, its jurisdiction, and no doubt how they are better than the Met! Pia and Lars walked several miles on foot patrol with local officers, before meeting senior officers. They then met some CoLP specialist police units, including the dog unit and firearms. Later that evening Pia, Lars, Ryan and Alex visited The Tower of London for the famous ceremony of the keys event. We were given a private tour of the tower by an off duty yeoman warder, a unique experience to see the tower and its grounds without the bustle of the everyday tourists. We were invited into the yeoman warder’s private bar, where coincidently, we met an IPA member from Australia. Day 3 saw Pia and Lars back with the Met, in Hackney. They worked alongside Ryan and his team, on the Violence Suppression Unit in Stoke Newington. Pia and Lars learned more Met history, from Bethnal Green legend and veteran DC Nobby

due to officers not being armed in the UK. Day 3 was a particularly exciting day for Ryan. Given his involvement in UK Football Policing and Public Order, he spent the day with his counterparts from the Football Policing Unit in Cologne. They worked a pre-season friendly fixture between FC Koln and Nantes FC. The day was spent alongside ‘spotters’ or, Operational Football Officers, as they’re known in the UK. As well as spotters, a specialist Riot Unit was on duty to support Ryan and his German colleagues, in monitoring a group of 100+ high risk French supporters in Cologne city centre. Ryan was treated to pitch side tickets to the match and the spectacular atmosphere within the stadium. It was a fantastic day discussing football, the difference in football policing and tactics, as well as a victory for FC Koln, plus a few new IPA members signed up along the way. Andy and Ryan described this as “among the best four days of their policing careers”. They made new friends and have lasting memories for the future. The program already has three months’ worth of officers from both countries lined up to swap places before the year is out. Without the efforts of Andreas and Alex, none of this would have been possible. It is a credit to the IPA and its mission. Now for the hard part, living up to the standards the Germans had set when their officers arrived in London two weeks later. Pia Mack and Lars Matuschka were the German half of this exchange visit. They were picked up by Ryan and taken to Charing Cross Police

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Professional Development

Frankfurt visit Amitav Sarkar, West Midlands Branch Over a long weekend in August, I attended an event for serving police officers, organised by the Frankfurt IPA Branch, and led by Commander Christian Henkel, a senior police officer in the Hessen State Police. The event was attended by officers from around the globe, including; France, Luxembourg, Italy, Japan, Israel, Ukraine, Romania, Hungary, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, and myself from UK. W e attended a packed program of educational and cultural experiences, ranging from meeting with the senior

Clark, who took them through the last century of policing on the borough, including the Krays Twins, World War Two and recent terrorist attacks in Docklands. Following the tour, Pia and Lars spent the afternoon attending calls across the borough with Ryan and his team. The pair saw a number of stop & search scenarios, grade 1 calls to robberies, phone snatches and other offences. Both Pia and Lar were thrilled with their experience of proactive policing, and it was clear the high speed driving was something new to them. Ryan then organised a quick stop at the MO7 Taskforce Mounted Base at Bow Stables, where a few of Ryan’s colleagues and friends gave Pia and Lars a tour of the stables, the horse boxes, and introduced them to the resident horses, each of whom had their very own unique characters. The visitors enjoyed the trip to the stables, and got an understanding of how critical the mounted unit is to the Met, especially in public order situations and football matches. Their final day started with an early morning tour of the Palace of Westminster, courtesy of a fellow IPA member. This is a venue that very few serving officers get to see, so an opportunity not to be missed. In the afternoon, IPA member and serving BTP Inspector Martin Turner, organised a ride along with the British Transport Police at Kings Cross & St Pancreas Stations. Ryan tagged along, as this wasn’t an opportunity Met officers get very often. The trio attended St Pancreas, and were met by specialist search officers, explained that a high profile visitor was attending the station to catch a train up north, but nobody knew who it was. Pia, Lars and Ryan accompanied the search officers and dogs around the station and trains, to make sure everything was safe for the VIP. Shortly after, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and his protection team came running through the station. Firearms officers from BTP then showed Pia and Lars around their armoured vehicles, showing them the various weapons and kit issued to them. A great chance for the pair to compare with what they have back home. To top the visit off, a few serving BTP officers came for a chat with Pia and Lars, to find out more about the exchange program and the benefits of IPA membership.

command of Hessen Police, a visit to the helicopter unit, the force control centre, and a display by their tactical firearms unit, who have access to military grade weapons systems. We enjoyed meals at various local eating restaurants, where I sampled local delicacies and the famous “apfelwein,” which is a German variant of cider. A special foot patrol along the festival area, around the river Main, took place on Saturday, where we walked in groups of four. Two delegates, accompanied by two local officers, who were of course armed for our protection. This was followed by a pleasant trip on the river, in the official police boat. We had an excursion to Rudesheim, a town outside the city, famous for its beautiful vineyards, and enjoyed an exhilarating cable car ride. The highlight of the trip was the opportunity to visit the tactical firearms range, at a top secret location outside the city, and test fire the range of weapons they use. My favourite moment was firing the Accuracy International sniper rifle, which is made in England, and rated the most accurate weapon of its type in the world. I enjoyed meeting the local officers, all of whom spoke excellent English, as well as the officers from other countries, all of whom brought their own unique take on policing to the event. Overall, this was a most exciting and excellent event, brilliantly organised by Commander Henkel.

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Article

Liverpool Friendship Week Julian Dearden, Liverpool & Merseyside Branch, Chairman

Our Gala Dinner Guests: left to right:- Conor O Higgins, President Ireland IPA; Spike Elliott, Secretary General Section UK; DCC Merseyside Police, Chris Green; George Durno, Branch Treasurer; Andy Cooke, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services; Julian Dearden, Branch Chairman; Bill Lloyd, National Treasurer Section UK; Danny Gidman, Branch Secretary.

In 2018, the suggestion of an International Friendship Week was first voiced at one of our meetings. It would be a “first” for our Branch, although we had a history of organising visits to other European countries. A couple of setbacks and cancellations, led to the event becoming reality in August 2023. T remendous work was carried out by both our Secretary, Danny Gidman, and our Treasurer George Durno. Help was A special mention must be made of the members of our Branch, who contributed to its success. Without them, it would not have been the triumph it was. They turned out daily to offer

The week commenced with a welcome buffet supper with introductions, drinks and an early night. The next few days included visits to The Beatles Convention, Tour of Liverpool by bus, followed by a “Ferry across the Mersey”. Visits to the famous Cavern Club, The Beatles Café, Beatles Concert, Merseyside Police Headquarters and “Matrix” Department (a specialised branch). Anglican Cathedral, and the famous Beatles Museum. We continued with a tour of Liverpool Town Hall and meeting the Lord Mayor, then a visit to a local Bar, a tour of Anfield Stadium (home of Liverpool FC), a Magical Mystery Bus Tour and a visit to Liverpool Museums. The week ended with an evening dinner cruise on The Floating Grace. Liverpool’s only floating restaurant and bar.

also obtained from IPA UK in particular, “Spike” Elliott, Bill Lloyd, and everyone at Fox Road. Our week coincided with the end of the annual Beatles Festival, which draws thousands of visitors to the City every year. We wisely limited the group to 42 visitors and after advertising the event through the IPA, we were very quickly oversubscribed. We had visitors from Norway, Malta, Poland, USA, Canada, Ireland, Germany and also the UK. We were actively supported by Merseyside Police, Liverpool City Council and IPA UK.

support, which was gratefully received. Our Branch have decided to hold another Friendship Week, 24th August to 29th August 2025. Watch this space!

Liverpool Town Hall

A Visitor’s Perspective John Amos, London South Branch

As soon as I saw the announcement in Police World, that the Liverpool and Merseyside Branch were hosting an International Friendship Week in August 2023, I wanted to be part of it. A lthough I joined the IPA as a young constable in 1974, I had not made much use of my membership, apart from attending local branch meetings. However, as my wife and I have been Beatles fans since they first burst onto the scene, we thought that the chance to visit the city of their birth was too good to miss. We were not to regret that decision, because from the moment local members met us at Lime Street Railway Station, until the day we left the city, we had a really great time. As was to be expected, we were a mixed group reflecting the international nature of the IPA, with participants from the UK, USA, Canada, Germany, Norway, Poland and Malta. We all got on extremely well, and by the end of our stay many good friendships had been formed. We found to our shame, that many of our new friends spoke better English than we did. Liverpool and Merseyside Branch were excellent hosts throughout our stay. On our first night, we were all presented with a welcome pack which contained, amongst other items, a T-shirt with the branch logo and ‘Liverpool 2023’. Later in our stay, we were treated to a Gala Dinner with live music. Local members acted as our guides and often drivers on our excursions, treating us to colourful stories of their city and their police careers. The amount of planning and organisation that the branch put into their Friendship Week must have been immense. During our stay, we visited all the iconic sites relating to the Fab Four. We also saw many of Liverpool’s historic buildings. The Deputy Chief Constable of Merseyside Police, and two of his senior officers, welcomed us to their very modern HQ, and briefed us on the activities of the Force. We were then shown their very impressive Specialist Operations Centre – The Matrix.

City Hall

Cavern Club

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Article

A Double Golden, In Canada Peter Martin, Sussex Branch I joined the IPA in 1972, to take part in a trip to Holland. In 1973 I married my wife Brenda, so 2023 is our 50th wedding anniversary and my 50th IPA anniversary. We celebrated by visiting our family in Canada, and wanted to tick off a bucket list item, by visiting Niagara Falls. We used the IPA travel form to contact local IPA groups. Jim Dallimore responded for Toronto and Dave Matterson for Niagara. With their help, we ended our visit to Canada with five wonderful days. W e were met by John, a retired officer from the Toronto force . In Toronto we were told there are only three seasons, Winter, Summer and Construction. We certainly arrived in the construction season, as roads were closed all over the city, but John, using his knowledge, took us through hidden upmarket streets and back roads delivering us safely to our hotel. The next day, we were greeted by Keith Chipman, who took us to Toronto Police Museum, giving us the back story to many exhibits, before taking us to Casa Loma, a marvellous castle on the fringe of Toronto. The afternoon involved a trip to the dog Section, where Sergeant John Gallagher hosted us with a detailed explanation of their section and a demonstration of his new dog, Jonny’s detection skills. On our second day, we were met by a new IPA member Rick Rand, who introduced us to Toronto Police’s Marine and Mounted sections. A trip on Lake Ontario was beyond our wildest dreams, followed by the introduction to the well-trained horses of the Mounted Branch. Although we planned to take the train, Rick insisted on taking us to Niagara, as his father Derek (also a retired Policeman from Toronto), now lives there. In the afternoon, we met up with Derek who showed us around. It was a wonderful trip, starting at Old Fort Erie, where a battle reconstruction was taking place. Hearing ‘God Save the King’ played by the band was an unusual feeling when so far from England! We travelled along the coastline, finishing at Niagara on the lake. The next day, we were met by Steve Skuse, a retired policeman from Niagara, who showed us the falls and events provided by Niagara Park Police. Following an interesting meeting with the Chief Inspector, at the Parks Police HQ, we walked over seven miles, enjoying the fabulous scenery. Of course, a boat trip to the falls was a must, we went behind the falls, under the falls and above them. At night they are illuminated in many colours. Rick met us again on our last day, insisting he took us back to the airport, which was a bonus. This year, through the IPA, I met police officers in Germany and Canada. For my wife and I, membership of the IPA keeps giving. Our sincere thanks go to all those who helped us achieve our Bucket List adventure in Canada.

Brian Deacon with Gunter Musolf at Minden Railway Station

Memories of Minden Brian Deacon, BTP Branch Brian wrote to Police World, after seeing the 50 years of membership article about Peter May, of Surrey Branch. Brian has his own memories of visiting Minden, in North Rhine Westphalia, which he shared with us.

Brian Deacon in uniform in the middle with Vernon Watkins Jochim Stallman and Gunter Musolf

POLICE WORLD Vol 69 No.1, 2024

Brian Deacon in uniform in the middle with Vernon Watkins Jochim Stallman and Gunter Musolf 13

Spotlight on the SIGS

International Motorcycle Rally 2023: North Wales Paul Firth, Chairman, UK Motorcycle SIG

Menai Straits with Menai Bridge in background

Casting my mind back to 2019 after our first motorcycle rally in Huddersfield, I remember saying that I would never organise another one. Fast forward to June 2023 and here we were at another IPA motorcycle rally. Hosted in North Wales this time, which is considerably nearer home for me. The weekend saw the arrival of 70 motorcycles to the Hand Hotel in Llangollen. T he lead up to everyone arriving seemed like one of those promotion questions that you might face. The challenges began with Wolfgang’s riding partner Hans, worked with me to ensure everything that could be done for Wolfgang was done, and he was looked after very well by all involved. He is now back home recovering from his injuries.

Friday morning saw members joining their ride leaders, to explore the fantastic countryside and amazing roads that North Wales has to offer. I think it’s fair to say everybody got back with a big smile and had had a wonderful time. Friday nights festivities continued in the bar and restaurant. Saturday was an opportunity to choose a different ride, with the running of the same routes again, so that people could enjoy different options. A special mention for Joe Anderson, who visited in 2019 from Australia, and made the trip again this year, it was great to see you again, Joe. Also, to Pam Harbour, who conquered her fear of heights, and managed to cross the famous Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a world heritage site a few miles out of the town. It would be remiss not to mention one of our German colleagues, Wolfgang Koller, who regretfully hit a dry-stone wall, just outside of Dolgellau. Wolfgang had to be taken by ambulance to hospital in Bangor, with a serious shoulder injury. Another special mention to one of our members Carolyn Barns, who was one of the first on the scene of the incident. Caroline, a retired nurse, was able to provide all the roadside care needed. Wolfgang was very lucky that Carolyn was there.

five miles of road works with surface dressing on the A5, making riding incredibly difficult. Then on my alternative route, there was a serious road traffic collision, which closed the road completely. Undeterred, members started arriving from noon, to be greeted by our rally planning group, who had been there from 9am. They had placed temporary signs along the A5 and surrounding areas to help locate a hotel which, although large, is not easy to find. Julian Grubb arrived bright and early to put up direction signs, only for local highways to remove them. It’s apparently not allowed to place anything on the precious street furniture, even if it’s only for an hour. We are grateful for Julian’s effort, although it turned out to be for nought. The rest of the planning committee were busy stopping locals ignoring the “private car park” signs, to use it for their daily shop. As a local, I was aware of this, so we were prepared. We did allow the three police motorcycles from North Wales in, and it’s great to see that the traditions of drinking opportunity to explore the options for the Friday and the Saturday that had been prepared and planned meticulously. There were six options for different rides with a maximum of 10 per group and also a coach trip, taking those not wishing to ride, over to Llandudno and Great Orme for the day. I have to say the shorter rides and the coach were very popular, given the long journey that some had undertaken to arrive in Llangollen the previous day! copious amounts of tea are still evident. After the evening meal, members had the

Despite the incident above, Saturday evening went off really well, and everybody said they’d had a wonderful time at the rally. The burning question once again from all the delegates being, “when will the next one be?” On a personal note, I would like to thank everyone involved in the planning, the organising and the delivery of the event over the weekend. I can’t name everyone but a special mention to Stuart & Sally McMillan, Steve, Lovegrove, and all the ride, leads and TEC’s. Bringing together 80 or so IPA members from across the UK and Europe is no mean feat. It does show just how much friendship and an enjoyment of a special interest like motorcycling can bring people together.

Caernarfon

Great Orme, Llandudno

Llangollen Town Crier

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