Cycle ride to remember heroic officers who have died in the line of duty

Heroic police officers who died in the line of duty will be remembered by colleagues during a charity cycle ride.

Officers and staff from Durham Constabulary, together with colleagues from Northumbria Police, are taking part in The Police Unity Tour.

The challenge raises money for the Care of Police Survivors (COPS) – a charity which supports families who have lost a loved one in the line of duty.

The tour is an annual long-distance ride that sees hundreds of police officers, staff, and their families converge on the UK Police Memorial at the National Arboretum, in Staffordshire, to remember their fallen colleagues.

DS Scott Jameson, PCSO Dean Regan, PC Nick Prest and casualty reduction co-ordinator Pete Tate, set off from police headquarters in Durham yesterday on their four-day ride, during which they will cover 260 miles, before arriving at the arboretum on Sunday where they will take part in a special service to remember those who have lost their lives on duty.

They were joined by Inspector Lee Morris and Phil Stephenson, from Durham Police Federation, who will be providing support to the riders throughout their journey.

Chief Constable Rachel Bacon, who will attend the service in Staffordshire to pay her respects, said: “Everyday our officers and staff put themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities.

“This event allows colleagues from police forces across the country to come together to honour those who have died in the line of duty.

“They made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their communities and their actions should never be forgotten.

“It also raises vital awareness into the amazing work that COPS do in supporting bereaved families.”

For anyone wishing to sponsor the team, please visit: https://tinyurl.com/3attctn2 or https://tinyurl.com/3wt847w9