Police_World_02_2018

Article

The International IPA Singer Derek Hignett , Devon & Cornwall Branch

I have been an IPA member for over 10 years and have been fortunate to attend many IPA seminars and conferences. Over the years I have built up strong friendships with many colleagues from across the world. I was delighted to be chosen to attend the Serbian 10 year Anniversary. I was well supported by my own Region as well as Section UK.

I arrived in Serbia with anticipation and excitement , as this was my first international event where I would be in full number one uniform at a formal gathering of IPA members from across many nations. I had already contacted Lee Brodie who was attending from Section Scotland. I knew he had only been an IPA member for a year or so and was sure he would embrace the comradeship with open arms. I was met by Natasha Mitrovic who spoke perfect English and escorted me like a real VIP to my own chauffeur driven Limo. Vitomir Golusin, the driver, also spoke good English. We travelled from the airport on blue lights and sirens, with motorcycle outriders, which I do not think would be allowed in Plymouth, making me feel very special. That night at the hotel, we enjoyed excellent food and fine wine, hosted by Bojan Markovic (IPA Serbian Section). Bojan, is a Liverpool football supporter and knowing I was from that part of the world originally, was very interested in my connections with the club. I was introduced to several other IPA delegates including Polish & Norwegian colleagues Oystein Wiik and Magne Langseth. Everyone spoke good English and I did not struggle for conversation. We were entertained well, Section Serbia funded the whole visit and I couldn’t pay for anything. After a hearty breakfast the following morning, we met in the hotel foyer in full number one uniform, with everyone looking very smart. After several photo’s, we were taken to Belgrade Capita Square, where local officers performed an amazing display, marching with National flags from across the world. The IPA is about friendship and cooperation and I was very proud to be a part of the parade, representing IPA Section UK. We then went to the Serbian National Theatre, an ‘Albert Hall’ type building. The President, Nebojsa Pantelic welcomed everyone. We then enjoyed a wonderful display of dancers, opera singers, and a large Police Choir, celebrating Serbian Culture. The gala evening was without doubt, the most enjoyable ‘formal’ evening I have ever attended (without my wife). We were greeted by the President

himself in his full dress uniform. The entrance was decorated with IPA insignia and flags from all of the Nations attending. I was impressed by their collection of Police memorabilia and on noting the lack of a ‘good quality’ British Bobbies’ helmet, gifted mine to the display. I thought Mr Stojanovic Slobodan, the curator, was about to burst into tears. Moving on to dinner, in decadent surroundings, we were treated to some amazing dancing skills from our host President Nebojsa Pantelic. Then we were entertained by one of Serbia’s international folk singers, followed by equally impressive Operatic singers. After dinner I was encouraged to sing by Renato Henc, an internationally renowned Opera singer. (He had heard from Bojan that I sing at events). How could I refuse? This was the first time I had sung with an orchestra backing. I think I shocked some of the guests as I went into Frank Sinatra mode and blew out ’My Way’, one of my favourites. I was then joined by Renato accompanying me with Conte-Partiro. I was hugged by so many people afterwards, I think I did myself proud. Gal Sharron the World IPA Vice President commented, I should be renamed the IPA international singer. A title I am willing to accept with honour. I made some wonderful new friends, and can pass my story to any prospective person thinking about joining the IPA. It is probably the world’s best members club! Spread the friendship across the globe. You never know when someone might need your support, so enjoy the fun, and give a little back to them too!!

20 years in Tayside VP Yvonne McGregor and Secretary of the Tayside Branch had the honour of presenting Iain Glass and Sandy Bowman with their 20 year Certificates at their AGM on Sunday, 25 February, 2018.

POLICE WORLD Vol 63 No. 2, 2018

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