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Seven of Derbyshire’s officers have set off to complete a 180-mile bike ride, to raise awareness and funds for a national charity that supports the families of police officers and staff who have lost their lives on duty.
They’re taking part in the Police Unity Tour, an annual charity pedal cycle ride which raises funds for UK Care of Police Survivors (COPS).
It attracts riders of all ranks and grades of the police family, each one riding in memory of a fallen colleague.
The cycle ride takes place over three days and to date, the Tour has raised over £1.3million pounds which directly supports the work of the charity.
On Sunday, the ride will conclude at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Alrewas, Staffordshire, where a memorial service will be held, with each force represented as well as many of the families.
Derbyshire’s cyclists set off this morning after a short service at headquarters, Ripley, attended by Chief Constable Rachel Swann and Police and Crime Commissioner Nicolle Ndiweni-Roberts.
DC Emma Corby is one of those taking part. “I’ve always loved cycling or anything sport-related, the health benefits it brings mentally and physically for me are undeniable. I’ve wanted to take part in this event before for many years, but there has always been something in the way.
“Losing a colleague in our department a couple of years ago reminded me that tomorrow is never promised, and that you shouldn’t put off until tomorrow things you want to complete today.
“So, I feel grateful and excited to be a part of the Derbyshire Police Unity Tour this year and will be riding with my friend and colleague in both my head and heart when those miles get a little tough.”
ACC Michelle Shooter will be cycling alongside. “I had friends on the ride last year, so I attended the Arboretum on the Sunday – and wow, what a sight and what an event.
“It was a very emotional but a proud moment seeing all those officers, staff and families in one place, drawn from police forces across the UK, all there for the same cause.
“That’s what inspired me to do the ride this year. I know it won’t be easy, it will be challenging, tiring and I am sure there will lots of tears but also lots of laughter along the way.
“It will be the sense of achievement in supporting this cause, seeing the families and being part of a team, which is what I am hoping gets me through it!”
PCC Nicolle Ndiweni-Roberts said: “This event epitomises the unity of the Police Family, as we remember the lives of colleagues we have lost. As we stand with their families and friends today, we are reminded of the bravery and courage of our officers alongside the challenges and sacrifices they make to keep us safe every day.”
This year, the ride is taking place between Friday 26 and Sunday 28 July, and Derbyshire’s riders are completing the route in partnership with neighbouring forces Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire. You can donate via their JustGiving page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/put-emchapter
To find out more about the Care of Police Survivors (CoPS) charity, visit Care of Police Survivors - Support for Bereaved Families | COPS UK (ukcops.org)