TRIBUTE


IN MEMORY OF OUR FALLEN HEROES


On Sunday 28 September, Coventry Cathedral fell silent as more than 1,400 people paid tribute at this year’s National Police Memorial Day. The service, attended by Secretaries of State, police chiefs, and bereaved families, marked the 22nd annual commemoration of officers who lost their lives in service, many in harrowing circumstances


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From the first solemn notes of the Last Post to the fall of remembrance petals from the cathedral gallery, the occasion carried deep resonance. Almost 5,000 officers have died on duty since the modern police service was founded more than 180 years ago. The service brought


safe is extraordinary. In our darkest moments, they protect us from harm with unwavering dedication and courage.” Her words reflected the central theme


“Each name we remember


together voices from across the policing family and beyond. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood delivered a poignant reading, acknowledging the extraordinary sacrifices made by officers: “The dedication and sacrifice that our police make each day to keep us


12 | POLICE | OCTOBER | 2025


carries with it a story of courage, duty, and selflessness. The legacy of our fallen officers lives on.”


of the day, honouring courage, service, and loss.


Prayers were led by family members,


each representing a story of devotion and heartbreak. Among them was Daniel


Rodgers, who travelled from Australia to mark 50 years since his father, PC Ian Rodgers of Greater Manchester Police, was fatally injured while searching a railway line. His presence, alongside his mother Pauline, highlighted the enduring impact of such losses on families decades later.


Others contributing included Inspector Jamie Jones of Gwent Police, reading in memory of colleagues lost in service, and retired PSNI Superintendent Yvonne Davidson, who served for 29 years in Northern Ireland. Adding the voice of a new generation, Police Scotland Youth Volunteer Iyona Shaar shared


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