PW_2_2023

Hartland

IPA News

Devon Branch Friendship Weekend 2023 Una Blundell, Devon Branch Secretary We returned to the Durrant House Hotel in Bideford for our 21st anniversary friendship weekend, organised by our treasurer Owen Harris. We had no agenda for the weekend, and friends were free to do as they pleased during the day, and spending evenings together comparing the adventures of the day. Some had walked the Tarka trail, while others visited the scenic areas of Appledore Instow, Hartland or Westward Ho! Instow has its original railway signal box, preserved in great condition since its closure in 1979. The lighthouse at Hartland, is on the tip of the peninsula and you can often spot Lundy Island in the distance. Mike and Linda Slade had a novel way of getting around on their tandem and completed a round trip to Barnstaple of 27 miles. Our entertainment was a disco on the first night and a singer on the second night. We also had a Quiz, so something for everyone. Our raffle raised £210, which we split between the cost of recruitment banners and a donation to Thin Blue Line. Thank you to everyone who donated prizes and bought tickets. We are already planning for next year, and Owen has secured a good deal at the Palace Hotel, in Paignton.

Instow Signal Box

IPA Games - Montenegro In the Spring of 2022, Brian Collins (Derbyshire Branch) was part of the Table-Tennis team, representing Section UK at the IPA Games in Montenegro. Section UK President, Clive Wood, awarded each team member a Presidential Certificate in honour of their support to the IPA. It took a while to catch up with Brian, who has been making the most of his recent retirement. Region 5 Chair, Gurmit Kaur, joined Blue Knights England VI for their monthly social, and presented the certificate on behalf of Clive.

London Life Alex Williams , London North Branch US Cop Scott McDonald, a retired Major from the

St. Petersburg, Florida Police Department, travelled through the UK in October 2022, stopping off in London for some IPA hospitality.

Scott and his wife Judy, were keen to meet IPA members, both serving and retired. Their first IPA meet was on the day of their arrival. Scott and Judy were escorted to dinner with London Reception Officer Alex Williams. Afterwards, they enjoyed a short stroll around central Westminster, taking in New Scotland Yard, Downing Street and Whitehall. The following Tuesday they attended the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London. Scott and Judy are both royal fans, and the chance to experience this unique ceremony was a true highlight. During Scott’s time in London, he also joined in Region 9’s visit to the London Transport Museum, where members enjoyed a guided tour around little seen exhibits, show casing London’s public transport. London North Branch member, John Wills, kindly stepped forward and arranged a tour of the Traffic and Parking Command Centre. Command and Control being Scott’s professional specialism, this was a terrific opportunity to see policing in action. John also accompanied Scott and Judy out to the castle at Hampton Court, and later they got to see the Mounted Unit’s HQ and speak with a couple of the horse trainers. Scott and Judy are most appreciative of the hospitality and assistance given in London, thanks to everyone who helped. As IPA UK section members, if you’d like to get involved with hosting International visitors in what ever way you can, please email lro@ipa-uk.org

POLICE WORLD Vol 68 No.2, 2023

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