PW_3_2025

IPA Section UK

Vol 70 No.3 2025

The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK

www.ipa-uk.org

Meet the new President See Pages 4-5

International Police Association Section UK

Lottery Winners See Page 27

Also inside: IPA UK on top of the world! See Pages 4-5

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

Vol 70 No.3 2025

Keeping You Informed 4–5 Keeping You Informed

Editorial Norman Hicks e-mail: pw.editor@ipa-uk.co.uk Deadline for article submission for Vol. 70 Edition 4, 2025 is 06 September 2025 Dispatched November 2025 Advertising

Karen Duckworth President of Section UK

Professional Development 6–7

Football in Albania: IPA UK - World Class Winners by Carl Humby

08

tel: (+44) 115 981 3638 e-mail: mail@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 Graphic Design by BDS 21 Ltd Membership

8–11 IPA Japan Friendship Week

By Liz Barker, Jane Hammond and Steve Chalmers

20–21 Walking In Her Shoes by Rupinder Gill Feature Articles 12–13 Celebrating St Patrick’s Day In Boston

by Deirdre Mahony, Chair IPA UK No 2 region N. Ireland

16

14

Section UK National Golf Competition by Karen Duckworth

16–17 Poland Exchange Visit by Emma Portfleet 22

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 £10. Visit the website to learn about our promotional offers. Annual renewal is £34. To apply visit www.ipa-uk.org.

Greater Belfast Branch Private Taster Sailing Event by Alice Armstrong

23 Anniversary Tennis Event 24–25 Region 2 IPA Hiking Weekend by Alice Armstrong 26 Region 4 First Walking Group by Gareth Cowley News 18–19 News from around IPA Spotlight on the SIGs 28

24

SIGs

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

Motorcycle SIG - Season Opening Weekend at Andover by Sally McMillan

29

Motorcycle SIG - AGM by Sally McMillan

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

Competition 27

Crossword and Soduko WIN one of these books by Darren Franklin with Martin Phillips and John Penlington

30 31

Classifieds

Diary

Cover Photo IPA President, Karen Duckworth

Next deadline 06 September 2025 for publication November 2025

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ISSN No: 0032-261X

Keeping you informed

Keeping you informed

Much to be positive about I am honoured to have been elected to succeed Clive Wood as President at the National Council Meeting (NCM) on 7th June. I thank Clive for his seven years of service as President and earlier work on the National Executive Committee (NEC).

A s Clive now focuses on his role as Head of Administration for the International Executive Board, the new NEC will continue advancing Section UK. The NEC includes returning members Vice President Colin Hutt (Head of Communication), Secretary General Spike Elliott, and National Treasurer Bill Lloyd, with new Vice Presidents Kieran English (Learning & Development) and Sean Hannigan (Culture & Social). Whilst everyone is aware that it is currently a challenging period for Section UK, there is much to be extremely positive about looking ahead at the next four years, because this organisation has so much to offer its members. Just before the NCM, Section UK held its annual National Golf Competition at the East Sussex National Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa. It was lovely watching our golfers on the last day of the competition, although in the wind and drizzle I was glad to be watching with a cup of coffee. I was able to spend time with Yvonne McGregor and Julie Robertson, who were staying with Kyra and I before heading back to Scotland. We took the opportunity to arrange a meal with May-Britt V.R. Ronnebro and her husband Lennart, who were in London at the time, along with members of Thames Valley Branch (Hannah Wheeler and Rupinder Gill).

Kimberly and Janine in Windsor

Section UK male and female footballers also took part in the first IPA World Football Tournament in Albania in June. The women’s team, made up of mainly new members who came to the IPA through Police Sport UK (PSUK) won their competition, so huge congratulations to them. It also provided the IPA with greater visibility within PSUK which will be very helpful looking ahead to events next year such as the IPA games in Wroclaw. Indeed, no sooner had the NCM finished, and I was hosting two colleagues from IPA Wolfsburg in Germany. Kimberly Geber and Janine Kruger had been travelling in beautiful Wales and spent time in Windsor on their way back home. Kimberly is a member of the IEB Project Team for #SHEisIPA, and it was a pleasure to introduce them both to members of Thames Valley Branch. This was particularly lovely because we were joined by Paul Devlin, a serving member of Thames Valley Police who had, that afternoon, received his long service medal. Paul had spent time in Wolfsburg in December 2024 hosted by Kimberly as a part of an exchange organised through #SHEisIPA.

Meeting May-Britt

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Keeping you informed

Colin and Alex Williams

Colin Shead

With Clive and Musaed

On June 18th I visited Deputy Chief Constable Ben Snuggs at Thames Valley Police (TVP) HQ in my capacity of Secretary of Thames Valley Branch. DCC Snuggs is our very lovely and active patron, and it is always a pleasure to chat with him about the IPA, our plans, and be able to glean his thoughts. As ever, he gave me some extremely helpful pointers and connections which I am following up. Our network of branch patrons is incredibly important to us. We are lucky to have active and engaged senior leaders in policing who see the value of the IPA and the contribution it can make to Police UK, and who are prepared to advocate for us. On Wednesday, July 2nd, I had the pleasure of joining Region 10 Chair Colin Shead and Emma Portfleet in Chelmsford at a training day Emma had organised for her officers. It was a great chance to talk about the IPA, and we had a few new joiners as a result. Colin and I then went on to meet Christian Robertson from Essex Police Sports Club (Christian also has a role within PSUK). Colin wanted to sound him out about how the Sports Club might be able to support Essex Police members who wanted to take part in the IPA Games and other IPA sports events, and building on the success of the women footballers in Albania, how PSUK might engage with the IPA. Again, a very positive conversation. Later that day, we met at the Horniman at Hays pub (opposite HMS Belfast) for Alex Williams’ leaving do. Alex is embarking on his ‘Cycling Detective’ world tour and we all wish him well. It was a chance to present Alex with his Honorary Life Membership certificate, Colin with his Presidential Award and the pair of them, on behalf of the London Reception Officer network (which Colin has taken over from Alex), the 2026 Millenium Shield for all the amazing work that the LRO team have done and continue to do. On Tuesday, July 8th, I represented the IPA at the British Overseas Territories Council for Commissioners of Police Conference dinner, at the invitation of Andrew Munday (law Enforcement Adviser, Overseas Territories and Polar Directorate – Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office). Our connection with the work being done in the overseas territories by the FCDO has grown over the last year, thanks to the support of Andrew and colleague Maria Stanley (both IPA members). Assistant Vice President Lorna Corbin (Region 11) and Emma Portfleet (Region 10) have been running an engagement program for British Overseas Territories (BOT) Foreign Associate Members (FAMs). This has included, amongst other things, monthly meetings to help create their professional network, linking them in with the online seminar series being run by Vice President Learning and Development Chris Duncombe. Through the #SHEisIPA Project, May-Britt V. R. Ronnebro and Marie Daly are also delivering a 12 month Mentoring Program for seven BOT, two TVP and one NPCC candidates.

The feedback from this has been excellent and as it draws to a close at the end of September, it is exciting to think how we can build on this. Projects and activities such as this help to build the profile and visibility of Section UK and the IPA more broadly with senior leaders in a position to say “yes.” The next morning, I visited Norfolk Police and Fire HQ in Wymondham with Andy Sullivan and Steve Bretherton to meet another of our fabulous patrons, Assistant Chief Constable Julie Dean. ACC Dean has been incredibly supportive to region eight activities and engagement, and it was lovely to see her again. The meeting with her, Vanisha Mistry (Bhogal) and Pippa Hinds was positive not only in the sense of suggestions about how Section UK can better integrate with Norfolk Police (comms, engagement, structure etc) but also how Norfolk Police can maximise the benefit from the IPA. After that meeting, we met a new young member in Suffolk Branch for lunch. Aaron was full of innovative ideas and suggestions, and I am sure that Andy and Steve will be taking him up on his offers of help. On Thursday, July 8th, at Fox Road, I met up with Clive and also Gaynor Collins, who has stepped in to fill the gap left by the departure of Michele Rai and is doing a fantastic job in helping us manage our day-to-day financial business. Clive and I also met Dr Musaed Al-Najjar about the start, next year, of the process to get a new ‘Section Kuwait’ off the ground, supported by Section UK. Exciting times. To finish, I want to underline all that is good about the direction of travel for Section UK. We have the highest number of members that we have had in years – currently just over 8,000 as I write this. We have a keen and committed NEC who want to move the section forward. We have seen recently that there are many people who are committed, skilled and who want to step forward and help, and this will be important moving forward. I have a strategic plan, which will focus on the key areas of business which will drive growth and make the Section fit for the future. I am really looking forward with optimism to what is to come and being able to write this piece

for Police World with positive and exciting things to share. Let us not allow what has happened in the past to define us. Let us instead use it to make ourselves better and stronger. Karen Karen Duckworth, President, International Police Association – Section UK

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Professional Development

Football in Albania IPA UK - world class winners By Carl Humby No.2 Region The UK section of the International Police Association (IPA UK) travelled to Albania in June to compete in the first IPA World Football Tournament, comprising of two separate competitions for both women and men. T he women’s team entered as IPA UK, made up of officers from Leicestershire (Carl Humby, Bronnie Hinton and Alka Mistry), Northamptonshire (Erica Turner), West Midlands (Shauna Cossens, at Loro Borici Stadium was set with a rematch against Bulgaria. UK leading at half time 1-0, conceded an early penalty in the second half, however the eventual scoreline was a 3-1 win to IPA UK. Captain Meg Searson claimed player of the tournament, and Jess Ellison the golden boot (12 goals).

Annie Highway, Laura Cooper and Jess Keeling), North Wales (Steph Taylor and Emma Roden), Greater Manchester (Jen Lomax, Ellie Cook and Meg Searson), Northumbria (Jess Ellison), Devon and Cornwall (Caitlin Labajo), and Essex (Amy Day). The men’s team entered as IPA International which was a combined effort of UK, Italy, and Japan, with the UK officers being represented from Police Scotland (Mike Briody), Thames Valley (Riley Stokes), and Metropolitan Police (Shiven Kumar and Alex Barclay). The men’s international team, despite a valiant effort in fixtures against North Macedonia, Romania, Croatia, and Israel, fell short of the knockout stages. Albania were the eventual winners of the men’s competition, in a heated final against Switzerland. The women’s team however was a different story. UK were drawn in a group with Montenegro, Romania, and Bulgaria with UK managing to top the group stage unbeaten, scoring 26 goals and conceding 0. The final, played

Women’s team manager Carl Humby said after the final game: “Team UK was a carefully selected team comprising some of the best available talent the UK Police has to offer. Prior to the competition none of us had any clue as to what the standard would be like, however we were quietly confident we could be successful. “Despite never playing football together before, the players showed their experience, were able to settle quickly as a team, and play some world class football to secure the silverware.” IPA UK Delegation Leader Alka Mistry said: “The tournament reflected the values of the IPA, friendship, fair play, and togetherness. We look forward to watching it grow.” More information and how to join the IPA can be found here - https://www.ipa-uk.org/Join-Us

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IPA Japan Friendship Week By Liz Barker , Jane Hammond and Steve Chalmers In March 2025, six IPA UK members travelled to the International Police Association (IPA), Section Japan Friendship week. T hey were Liz Barker, Dave and Jane (Doyle) Hammond from London Met Branch and also Steve and Catherine Chalmers with their son Morgan from IPA Kent Branch. Steve is Chair of 11 Region and Secretary for Kent Branch. Each of us made plans to explore Japan either before, after or travel onwards in Asia. Liz writes: Arriving a week early, travelling solo, I was lucky to be met at Tokyo Haneda airport by IPA Japan member, Toru, a retired Tokyo Police Chief. For my first two days Toru guided me through parts of central and north Tokyo. As we walked around his favourite temple (near to his former Police District) we found lots in common on our policing journey. We ended the first day visiting a bookshop where a group meet to practise spoken English. The group organiser kindly brought a kimono for me to try and I was invited to stay with them for birthday cake when Toru had to leave to attend his own retirement party from a motor company. On day two we were joined by another retired officer, Megumi from Kanagawa district, south-east of Tokyo. Meg had worked in road safety education and compulsory driving improvement courses for ‘naughty’ drivers. After a long walk through Ueno market and park, they took me to a Japanese pub for beer and appetisers of raw prawn, tuna sashimi (raw slices) and edamame beans. Toru introduced me to Chu-hai, a barley grain alcohol mixed with soda water and touch of lemon syrup. It became my ‘go to’ refreshing drink instead of beer. The real value in meeting Japanese IPA colleagues was not only seeing places where tourists don’t go, but learning of things we have in common. Both Toru and I had started a degree at college, realised it wasn’t for us, left our home towns due to lack of opportunity and became police officers in busy metropolitan areas by chance, rather than by design. Meg and I both enjoy our retirement - throwing ourselves into hobbies and learning new things. She is travelling to the UK later this year with a friend and I am pleased to assist her make plans. I was grateful for an insight into life in Tokyo: students celebrating graduation dressed in kimono, having photo calls in front of places of architectural interest and the few cherry blossom trees in bloom; afternoon treats of strawberry cream cakes at £15 a slice, and how to use the self-serve tills in the combini (24/7 stores) which were a life saver for my solo travel days. Toru’s kind offer to spend two days with me helped a great deal as I gained so much knowledge of how to meet and greet; make a prayer at temples; order food in the self-service restaurants and how to navigate the subway system. It was great to meet so many Japanese IPA members supporting our visits and gala evenings. They must have rehearsed timings and responsibilities for each location and teams of IPA helpers in yellow gilets. We were honoured to have been made to feel so welcome and given so much from the membership, who worked so hard to show us their martial arts skills, music and taste exquisite Japanese food.

Dave, Liz, Jane, Steve, Catherine and Morgan

Mrs Suzuki kindly brought a kimono for me to try on - an unexpected treat

Toru, Liz and Megumi walking through Ueno market - a fascinating place to taste Japanese food delicacies and buy brightly boxed sweets made from unusual ingredients such as sweet potato (they were nice!)

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After five days I joined the IPA friendship week where Jane picks up the story. Jane writes: My husband David (also Rtd Met) and I arrived one week early and hired a car to visit Wakayama, the Koyasan Mountains, and the original Capital of ancient Japan, Nara, where wild deer bow to you and you find yourself bowing back! We ended our week in Osaka and met up with Liz the night before the friendship week started. IPA Japan travel organiser, Ryoji Suzuki would have a busy week keeping us all in check, and on time. Punctuality is very important in Japan - especially with a 90 second boarding ‘window’ on the Bullet trains for a group of 46 and luggage - it was tense at times !! The first night we took a coach from the Hotel Granvia Osaka to KKR Hotel for the first of many wonderful banquet meals. This one hosted by IPA Osaka. We began the evening with the ‘Kampi’ toast and invited to briefly introduce ourselves (in one sentence). Some forgot the brief of being brief !

IPA Japan hosts in their yellow gilets - you could see them everywhere making it easier to keep with the group

Bond film ‘You Only Live Twice’. Sadly we didn’t have time to explore inside the winding wooden corridors of the castle before another Shinkansen journey to Kyoto. Early morning we headed to the Kiyomizudera Buddhist Temple halfway up Mount Otowa. It was a steep walk past shops up to the temple founded in 778CE. The stage area is built into the steep hillside supported by 13 metres of wooden beams and no nails! The complex has a stunning three tier Pagoda and wonderful views over Kyoto. Onward we went to Nijo Castle, palace residence of the first Shogun of the Edo period, built in feudal Japan in 1603. It is famed for its decorative rooms, adorned with gold paint and figures of flowers, birds and even tigers that no one had seen but only heard about. The wooden corridors chirruped like nightingales singing as you stepped along them - an anti-intruder device by design. The day also included a walk around the Golden Temple set in beautiful Japanese gardens. Beautiful views from every angle when the sun came out and gold reflections of the temple resonated on the surface of the lake. Last stop of the day was Toei Kyoto Park. It is a purpose-built film set for Edo period Japanese films and TV programmes. It puts on shows and children pretend to be ninjas around the play areas and sets. I spotted two Sumo wrestlers walking around, on a day out like us.

A beautifully presented lunch - snail and pickles bottom right

The banquet style meals at both lunch and dinner consisted of healthy fresh and delicately prepared vegetables, thinly sliced raw fish, seafood, cooked fish, cooked meats like chicken or duck, sometimes snail, always pickles and seaweed. All beautifully presented in highly decorated pretty porcelain dishes. Some of the stranger things were savoury custards with Oysters, oolong tea, wine, beer and generously flowing sake. IPA Japan members entertained us with demonstrations of traditional skills with a kendo sword display and the playing of Japanese pipes. At 8.30 we all had to shout ‘Yoh’ with a single wide armed clap - signalling the end of the party. In the morning after a huge buffet breakfast we left the hotel pushing our suitcases in file through the enormous 5-floored Osaka station (which was the size of a small town) marshalled by our yellow gilet’d IPA hosts to the Shinkansen (Bullet train) to Hiroshima. We had 90 seconds to get the whole group on the train and cases up overhead. We caught the tram to Hiroshima Peace Park. We got off the tram and fell silent at seeing the iconic Genbaku Dome and what it represented. This World Heritage site includes the very moving Peace Memorial Park and Peace Museum. In the Museum, we read accounts and looked at the harrowing photographs and exhibits. Silence is requested while doing so. In the park, we saw a memorial to the children called the Tower of a Thousand Cranes. It features a statue of Sadako Sasaki, a girl who died of leukaemia after the bombing. She made 1000 origami paper cranes to make a wish to get better. This led to her friends starting the Children’s Movement. It was a very moving visit in many ways. From there it was back to the Hotel and another lovely banquet hosted by IPA Hiroshima. During the meal we all learnt how to make a paper crane. The next day we took a regular train ride to the Miyajima Coral Hotel for lunch before catching the ferry to Miyajima, Setonaikai National Park - one of the top three scenic spots in Japan, famous for its red ‘floating’ Tori gate and Itsukushima Shrine. Onward by Shinkansen train, we headed to another World Heritage Site - the imposing 14th Century Himeji Castle, as used in the

Our group with IPA members from Estonia, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Brazil, Italy, Sweden, Australia, Canada, USA, Belgium to name but a few and of course UK

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Dinner was hosted by IPA Kyoto and Nara members, who had travelled a long way to join us. We were very honoured to be entertained by two Maiko who danced to traditional music. One was a Maiko ‘Dancing Child’ going through her five-year training in music, dance and conversation. This was a special treat indeed - even for our Japanese IPA hosts. As the ladies circulated amongst the diners we could see their stunning embroidered kimonos up close. You can pack in a lot of culture in one day! Next day we took another Shinkansen direct to Tokyo - 476 km travelled in 2 hrs 20 mins with clear views of Mount Fuji. Later we were taken to the Sensō-ji Temple and the shopping arcade at Asakusa. The Sensō-ji Temple is the oldest Buddhist Temple in Tokyo. The narrow shopping arcade is very crowded with people slowly making their way down to the temple and five storey Pagoda. The cherry blossom season, known as Sakura, had been declared open the day before and people were also coming to see the trees and many foreigners also hire kimonos to wear.

The hotel Grand Arc Hanzoman, with its prime views of the Imperial Palace, is owned by the Police. We had our dinner there hosted by IPA Tokyo and Chiba branches. Dinner entertainment included a karate display by an IPA member. We were lucky to have access to the Imperial Palace grounds on a visit to learn about the role of the Imperial Palace Guards who guard the Palace and Japanese Royal family. They have stables, motorbike display area, dog handling and sniffer dog training. Amongst the martial arts practised in the dojo are Kendo and Judo. It was a treat to see the archery master demonstrate use of his two-metre bow, with the caveat that for purpose of the art, it is okay to miss the target occasionally. The museum within the palace grounds houses valuable artifacts including the wedding kimono worn by the Empress from the 1930s. As if we hadn’t seen enough already, we went to the red and white Tokyo Tower observation platform at 250 metres high. Sadly, there was no view of Mt Fuji that day. Last stop, a walk around the 17th century Hama-rikyu Edo Gardens of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and the freshwater lakes have a lock against the seawater. That evening, we were treated to a choppy night-time dinner cruise around Tokyo Bay, to see the skyline and see the new Skytree Tower lit up. On our last full day we went by coach to the Hakone area to (hopefully) see Mount Fuji. Sadly, slow traffic and bad weather meant we had to cancel the boat trip across lake Ashi. We took an aerial cable up to see sulphur pools, but with zero vision and high winds we cut it short and headed to Yokohama for our farewell gala evening hosted by Kanagawa IPA. A game of Bingo with an extensive prize table ensured a good spread of gifts for all, adding to those already on our tables. It is the Japanese custom to give small gifts when meeting people and it was good to see that reciprocated by guests. With the President of IPA Japan present, there were many national gifts of appreciation and thanks. Steve had thoughtfully brought a plaque and Thin Blue Line Union Flag which was gracefully received by Mr Kanetaka. It had been a great week, fully packed with interesting visits of historical and modern Japan, with wonderful food and

One of Maiko dancing at the Gala dinner, Kyoto

opportunities to learn about Japanese culture. Our many hosts had been so helpful, and it was a pleasure to meet so many IPA members within the group and our many new Japanese friends. Steve Chalmers writes: Truly the nicest people on earth! Having waited for over five years for the Friendship week to take place, due to a small inconvenience called Covid, we wondered whether or not Japan would really live up to its reputation?

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Professional Development

Steve presented the flag to Mr Masahito Kanetaka, President of IPA Japan with our IPA UK contingent

On to Osaka, where we were met by Mr Sakamoto, who had taken the time to travel from the other side of the town to collect us from the airport and drop us at our hotel. Exhausted, having spent 20 hours travelling, we still managed to grab a few sights, smells and sounds in the two days before the week began in earnest. Taking in too many sights to mention in one article, our very generous hosts treated us to an exceptional itinerary, with exceptional company, exceptional food and more celebration ‘party’ evenings than you can shake a stick at. Osaka, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Tokyo - each as amazing as the next, with a particularly moving time spent in Hiroshima. At every turn, we were made to feel special, from being applauded by IPA Japan members as we got off the coach to enter a hotel, being herded at high speed onto the bullet train, being toasted at a gala dinner, or being taken into the inner sanctuary of the Imperial Palace where we were treated to a rare display of martial arts, archery and motorcycle skills. Our hosts from all regions were unfailing in their tireless energy and friendship. A special mention must go to Mr Ryoji Suzuki. What an exceptional hard working and dedicated host and member of Section Japan. I have genuinely never felt so in awe of a group of people that I am now proud to call our friends. There were of course the obligatory speeches, gift exchanges and a fair bit of mischief from my partners in crime from Section UK (you know who you are) and I am now the proud owner of a very large collection of business cards from my new friends. Along with a whole sack full of presents. I also now have a Pokemon soft toy, I have no idea what that means, but my grandchildren love it. An amazing farewell party rounded the week off, where we had the strangest game of Bingo (everybody seemed to win a prize ), a Nippon Kendo Kata exhibition, finishing the evening off by saying our goodbyes to new friends from around the world. We had the foresight to book an extra few days at the end, which allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in sushi and sashimi, and to experience the absolute bonkers Tokyo Central Sation and Shibuya crossing. How do they fit so many people into such a small space? And keep it clean and safe? Would we go back again? The tickets are being booked for next September.

We arrived a few days before the official Friendship week began and were truly humbled by the welcome we received. Having had to connect via an internal flight from Tokyo to Osaka, our very first experience of Japanese culture and hospitality was with something as simple as the airport baggage handlers. Looking out of our aircraft window as we were pushed back from the terminal, we sat open mouthed as the baggage handlers lined up, bowed and then waved a cheery goodbye to us! I cannot imagine this happening in the UK.

Liz, Jane and Dave at the Imperial palace, Tokyo

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Article

Section Ireland members Garda Derek Moroney and Garda Brendan Matthews, No 2 Region members DC Marie Rafferty and DC Deiirdre Mahony with members of US Marine Corps

Diane McConaghie and Sean Haveron Boston Harbour

Cheers Bar

Deirdre Mahony with Boston Traffic Officers

Celebrating St Patrick’s Day In Boston by Deirdre Mahony , Chair IPA UK No 2 region N. Ireland No 2 Region members, Diane Maconaghie, Sean Haveron, Marie Rafferty and Deirdre Mahony accepted an invitation from Section Ireland to accompany them on a trip to Boston, Massachusetts, to take part in the St Patrick’s Day parade.

T he hospitality from Boston Police and our hosts Jimmy Devlin , Pete Bramante and Tina Langley, who organised everything from the US side, was exceptional. Ann Liston Section Ireland, who organised the trip assisted by Donal Sweeney looked after us all so well. We numbered 82 in total so not a mean feat. Taking part in the Parade was quite an incredible experience. It was a 3 ½ mile walk through South Boston with an estimated one million spectators, all dressed up for the occasion, but none so more than our own Diane Maconaghie who, had there been one, would surely have received the prize for best dressed lady. We were also hosted by Boston Police Emerald Society on one of the evenings for a reception. We exchanged police patches and had a really fun evening. Another highlight was a trip to Salem. We were met by former Peabody Police Dept Lt Sheila McDaid, we had a walking tour of the town and a visit to the Salem Witch Museum, which was fascinating and well worth the visit. A few had the wisdom to hire bicycles and do a coastal tour. Good advice for anyone wishing to visit Salem. Although November is the busiest time to visit, I think it was worth getting such an intimate view of Salem without hordes of tourists. Essentially, we were the only tourists on our visit and it is such an easy train ride from Boston. We were treated to a trip around the harbour by the Boston State Police Marine Unit on their environmental patrol boats. Our hosts here were Lt. Colonel Marc Lavoie and Retired Lt. Colonel Jimmy Concannon. Our Sean Haveron even got to captain one of the boats, having informed the Lt Col Lavoie that this was the only form of transport he hadn’t driven previously and, thankfully, we all survived his brief navigation of Boston Harbour. Boston is a really beautiful city and the home of Cheers, which of course also featured on our itinerary. They can now add a PSNI patch to their collection of police patches at Cheers. Our thanks to Section Ireland for organising this incredible trip and letting us come along for the ride.

No 2 Region Deirdre Mahony & Irish Wolfhound, Seamus

Marie Rafferty and Derek Maroney

Diane McConaghie with a selection of her new male friends

Deirdre Mahony, best Dressed Lady Diane McConaghie and Marie Rafferty

Salem Witch Museum

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Countering Terrorism in the Digital

Sports

Section UK National Golf Competition Between 3rd and 5th June 2025, East Sussex National Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa just outside of Uckfield in East Sussex, played host to the Section UK National Golf Competition.

T he venue was absolutely lovely and provided a lovely backdrop for both the golf and the social element, so important for all IPA events, writes Karen Duckworth. Twenty-eight players representing six regions took to the courses in what can only be described as changeable weather. Four of those playing were new to the event (and two who were new members) so it was great to see the event attracting new players.

The results were as follows: Individual Competition 1st Yvonne McGregor (R1) 2nd Mick Woolston (R6) 3rd Paul Fenn (R5)

Team Competition 1st Region 10 2nd Region 1

I would like to take the opportunity to thank Paul Fenn for all of his hard work in the run up to the event. There is a lot of organising involved, especially when it comes to the logistics of the competition itself, and he was fabulous. Everyone had a brilliant time and there was a real buzz of excitement about next year’s event. More details of that will follow in due course from Sean Hannigan - Vice President Culture and Social.

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FLEXI-LOAN “A flexible loan, always ready, which boosts your savings when not used.” - Alan, HACCU member

*BORROW BETWEEN £500 - £3000

*CAN BE TAKEN IN ADDITION TO EXISTING LOAN!

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*Representative Example (9.5% APR): Draw down £3,000 and make minimum payment of £97 for 36 months

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Poland Exchange Visit by Emma Portfleet I arrived in Wrocław (pronounced Roslav), full of anticipation, having practiced, “dzień dobry, nazywam się Emma Portfleet. Miło mi cię poznać.” I was met at the airport by Michał and Urszula. B ut instead of doing my Polish introduction, my mind went blank, and I squeaked out a “hi” and made it awkward. Thankfully, Michał, who is an Inspector, and Urszula who is a second in command Polish history is important to the identity of Poland and is commemorated at their HQ building. Kacper and I had the pleasure of being shown around by Bartek from Centralne Biuro Śledcze Policji which is a branch of their serious and organised crime unit, similar to a cross between our ROCU and NCA. Bartek has an expansive skill set, certainly one to be envious of.

Sergeant, both from community policing teams, were lovely and spoke amazing English. They took me on a tour of the Old Town where we climbed 300+ steps to the top of the church tower and had incredible views over the city and out to the mountains. I stayed on a German military base, now the Wrocław Police training complex, built in 1936 when the Soviets had control of Poland. I was joined by Kacper, a Met Police officer, who thankfully speaks perfect Polish and English, having grown up in Poland before moving to the UK aged 17. The base once had a river running through it, a subsidiary of the river Odra, that allowed for shipments to arrive by boat. During high water, the river runs through the complex, but currently just a lake remains. The last remaining bridge of its kind still stands as a crossing over the lake. It is made up of 4 different sections, constructed of different materials; stone, concrete, brick and steel.

HQ was built in 1928 and contains many artistic and beautiful features. Sadly, it also contains a number of less original features, such as bullet holes. The corridors of the HQ building are all curved. This is a legacy of German engineering and of many conflicts featuring in Poland’s history. The corridors are curved so that shots cannot be fired from one end to the other, ensuring escape, but also for secrecy. Two suspects from the same job can be held there for interview, without knowing the other is there. A further feat of German engineering is the three storeys of underground basement levels. While it has been governed by Germany many times as well as Russia, HQ has always been used for policing. While at HQ, I met up with Anna, SHEisIPA representative and organiser of the exchange, and met the CEO of IPA Wrocław, Bartłomiej. See Women in

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IPA for more information about SHEisIPA. This year is the 100th anniversary of women in the Polish Police, and I was honoured to be interviewed by Monika, with the recording being used as part of the celebrations. While the processes are very much like my home Force, Essex, 20+ years ago, where everything is handwritten, they do have some great partnership working. There is a multi-agency control room, joint with fire and ambulance. The control room is much more up to date, using technology to record incidents, as we would in Essex. The Wrocław police control receive an average of 500 - 600 incidents a day. Unfortunately, the British and Spanish football fans did not represent our countries very well, with many fights occurring before the game. I’m not one for public order; investigations and public protection is more my thing, but I did quite like the litre canisters of CS the OPP (the public order officers) carry. I also found out they have ghost busters style backpacks of CS for public order situations! Sticking with sport, next year sees the IPA Games being held in Wrocław. IPA UK will send a team out to partake in the games. See IPA - Sports for more information. Will you be there? The most important thing I learnt, is that pierogi is delicious. It is like a dumpling that is boiled and can contain meat, or vegetables and cheese, or even fruit. Sometimes the dumplings are then fried. But pierogi can be oven baked instead of boiled and these taste like little calzone pizzas. Pierogi is another reference to the war-torn history of Poland as its creation was borne out of The Great Hunger. There is so much more that I could say about policing in Poland, but I will finish with another highlight. My last night ended with a fabulous boat trip along the river Odra, courtesy of Bartek, where I got to see the city from a different angle. Anyone who knows me will know I love being on the river, so it made the last night truly magical. We welcome some of our Polish friends later this year to show them Essex and London when they complete their exchange. If you want to join the International Police Association, and have the opportunity to explore the world while learning more about policing through the IPA exchanges, you can sign up here https://linktr.ee/ipauk

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IPA News

Portugal Visit Studies Policing in Tourist Hotspots Four members of the Lincolnshire Branch completed a professional and cultural visit to the Algarve region of Portugal, to explore best practices in positive policing and evidence-based approaches during peak tourist seasons. The visit focused on sharing knowledge and learning from Portuguese counterparts about managing the unique policing challenges that arise from the dramatic seasonal influx of visitors. Much like the Algarve, Lincolnshire’s east coast experiences a significant rise in population during the summer months, bringing with it increased demands on local police resources. The Lincolnshire IPA members had the opportunity to engage with officers and officials in the region, gaining insight into successful strategies for public safety, community engagement, and crime prevention during the busy tourist period. A highlight of the visit was attending Portugal Day celebrations (10th June), where the group met with His Excellency the President of Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa This international exchange, facilitated by the IPA, with support from Lincolnshire Police, reflects the IPA’s commitment to fostering global friendship, understanding, and the sharing of professional knowledge among police officers worldwide. The photograph shows the four Lincolnshire Officers, Nick Elmer, Pete White, Nicola Paradowski and Gemma Oxby meeting with the President at the celebrations.

Anniversary Gala Dinner

On Friday 4th July 2025 members and guests from Scarborough Branch gathered at North Cliff Golf Club, Scarborough for a Gala Dinner to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the International Police Association. After meeting in the bar, the group enjoyed a three-course meal in a private dining room overlooking Scarborough’s North Bay and the Castle. After the meal, Branch Secretary Chris Charlton raised toasts to The King, our Patron the Princess Royal, The IPA and finally, Friends and Friendship. The Gala Dinner was a fitting way to mark the occasion.

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IPA News

Green IPA – Plant A Tree UK No 2 Region N. Ireland collaborated with the Woodland Trust to volunteer with Tree Planting at Faughan Valley. They also helped with discouraging non-native trees, hastening their demise and encouraging bio-dioversity. In time, they will be replaced with native trees such as those planted on this occasion: a combination of Crab apple, Whitethorn, Grey Willow and Cherry Willow. Necessary fencing work was also carried out. It was a thoroughly enjoyable Green IPA day in gorgeous sunshine, space, fresh air, good views and company. The group planted 75 trees in honour of this our 75th Anniversary and then 1600 or so more. The Region is so proud to be part of this global Green IPA journey, contributing to combat climate change and work towards creating a safer and more sustainable world for everyone.

Donna Smyth and Joanne Donaghy competing fiercely with tree planting efforts

The Green IPA Tree Planting with the National Trust

Members of No 2 Region taking a well-deserved break from tree planting activities

Diane Crockard removing outer bark from non native species

Deirdre Mahony in training with National Trust

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Professional Development

Walking In

Shoes

Embracing an Inclusive Vision for the Future: Reflections from the IPA Seminar By Rupinder Gill When I decided to join the International Police Association (IPA) last year, I was immediately drawn to the passion of Karen Duckworth when she spoke about the IPA, particularly the SheIsIPA initiative she was leading. Inspired by her enthusiasm, I made a decision to attend the next seminar under this project: Embracing an Inclusive Vision for the Future . F rom the moment I began my application process, I was filled with excitement. Even the logistics — securing time from as an ethnic minority woman in policing, feeling unheard and held back in my role. Rupi and KD at Culture Night outside of Cologne Cathedral

However, as I listened to the stories around me, I had a profound realisation: the challenges I faced as a woman of colour in UK policing were mirrored by other women in the room navigating male-dominated work environments. My lived experience was not isolated—it was part of a broader struggle faced by women across the policing world. The way I felt as a woman of colour is UK policing was simply how a lot of delegates felt as women in policing. Lessons from Inspiring Leaders The seminar featured a lineup of powerful speakers who left lasting impressions. Recently retired Chief Superintendent Hannah Wheeler shared how she overcame obstacles in her policing career. One key takeaway was her Elevator Pitch technique, capturing someone’s attention in 30-60 seconds to convey crucial information. As someone who sometimes

my Force, preparing for attendance — felt like milestones toward an enriching experience. Although I had concerns about whether my religious needs would be accommodated, a single email resolved everything, reinforcing the

inclusive nature of the event. A Powerful Welcome

As I arrived at the picturesque castle where the seminar was being held, I took a moment to appreciate its beauty. The setting felt perfect, a place where important conversations on inclusion and empowerment would take shape. Walking into the seminar room on the first day was a moment of awe. The room was filled with officers from different countries, each in their uniforms. As introductions unfolded, we were asked to share what we hoped to gain from the seminar. I spoke openly about my experiences

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Professional Development

In the classroom

As a British Indian, it was important for me to showcase my Punjabi heritage alongside my representation of British policing. My most powerful memory of the day was when one of the delegates told me that the pride I have in my Indian heritage, makes her want to celebrate her heritage too. One unforgettable moment was dancing to Bhangra music in a castle in Gimborn, surrounded by women and male allies from 25 different countries, all eager to learn new dance moves. It was a surreal and joyous celebration of diversity; a memory that I will forever cherish. A Journey of Empowerment The seminar highlighted the importance of empowerment, representation and resilience for women in policing. All candidates were provided with excellent tools to lead and support their own forces. I am appreciative of the connections that I have made I am grateful for the opportunity provided to me by the IPA I am thankful to my force for allowing me to attend the seminar I am in awe of every single female at the seminar and I am excited to continue my journey in policing. As I reflect on those transformative days, I feel grateful for the connections made, the lessons learned, and the opportunities provided by the IPA. My journey in policing continues, with newfound inspiration and a commitment to inclusivity at the heart of everything I do.

struggles with directing conversations, this advice was brilliant. Hannah also spoke about naming one’s imposter, a strategy I have since adopted. Having always struggled with imposter syndrome, this advice was invaluable. Giving my imposter a name—and telling it to get back in its box—has been a transformative approach for me. Ruth Busby, a champion for diversity in Great Western Rail, also stood out. She spoke about breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, sharing insights into how her leadership has positively impacted the workforce. Hearing about the changes she has implemented was particularly meaningful to me. My late father spent most of his career in the rail industry and often spoke about the challenges he faced as a minority worker. Seeing how far the industry has come filled me with hope. Since the seminar, Ruth has connected me to a female who runs the diversity network in GWR and we are looking at how we can learn from each other to help our own respective networks. Another thought-provoking session came from Kirsten De Jong, who discussed AI and the Future of Policing. The role of technology in law enforcement is a topic of both excitement and concern, and her insights into algorithmic bias and facial recognition resonated deeply with me. I have concerns about the disparities in AI recognition, and this will be something that I would want to explore in my Force. Kirsten expressed interest in Thames Valley Police’s ongoing work in this area, and she plans to visit the UK to explore potential collaborations. I recently attended a policing conference in London where I spoke to a female working on the Pronto project in Motorola. I am in the process of connecting her with Kirsten to see how some of the technology we have in the UK can be taken into Dutch Police.

Rupi and KD

Liam Busby is a real advocate for Thames Valley Police and for HeForShe. He spoke passionately about promises made by UK policing to support this movement. It was uplifting to see that his work was appreciated by women in policing from across the world. I felt a real sense of pride that Liam worked in the same Force that I did. We have even connected since to see how HeforShe can work specifically for Women of Colour in TVP. Another notable speaker was Chief Officer Dr José Rooijers, who shared her experiences leading major investigations, including the Enschede Fireworks Disaster. It is always fascinating to listen to the journey of a senior officer in policing. She spoke candidly about vulnerability in leadership, recounting how she became emotional after receiving news about a missing family being found while escorting the Queen at the disaster site. This moment, captured by the media, demonstrated the importance of acknowledging emotions in policing. Her words were a powerful reminder that officers are human and that taking care of oneself is just as vital as taking care of others.

Rupi and Aneta

Cultural Exchange and Lifelong Memories

Beyond the formal sessions, the cultural evenings were an enriching experience. Delegates brought food and items representing their heritage, fostering meaningful conversations about identity.

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