Call out for former police officers

Sunday 15 March 2020

As Guernsey Police celebrates its centenary, the force is looking to make contact with as many former officers as possible.

The plan is to invite them to a scheduled parade, celebration service and afternoon tea reception taking place on 21 April.

Head of Bailiwick Law Enforcement Ruari Hardy said: “The Guernsey Police Centenary celebration will be a special time for those who serve or have served the organisation to come together and reflect upon our achievements and think about the challenges ahead.

"The celebration includes a formal parade of serving and retired officers, a Church service and then a social event where we can meet friends and colleagues together with our guests. Organising events such as this pose challenges, one of which is ensuring everyone who should be invited receives an invitation. We have worked hard to try and achieve this, but please if you haven’t received an invitation please contact us at Police Headquarters and we will pass on the details you need. I look forward to meeting you all on 21 April.”

Pictured: Ruari Hardy took over as the Head of Law Enforcement at the start of 2019. 

The Guernsey Association of Retired Police Officers [GARPO] has circulated this message to their members, many of whom will be attending. However, the invitation is being extended to all retired officers, regardless of association membership, to ensure maximum attendance.

GARPO Chairman Paul Tebbutt said it would be a memorable occasion. 

“This is a really special occasion for the force and a unique opportunity to spend time with former colleagues, serving officers and the dignitaries who are inspecting the parade – including Metropolitan Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick," he said. 

“There will be those who remember the 75th anniversary and took part in that parade. To have participated in both will be a special memory. If you want to attend, now is the time to say so, to be assured of getting a seat – tomorrow maybe too late, so we urge people to contact Police Headquarters at the earliest opportunity”.

As well as the formal events taking place in April, Guernsey Police’s centenary is being celebrated throughout the year, with, among others, a return of "Tweet on the Beat", a static display at the Motorsport Sea Front Sunday and old pictures being placed online.

Former officers who would like to attend the celebrations are invited to contact Marie Halliday at Police HQ on 725111.

Pictured: The first Guernsey Police Station and the current one. Pic from Guernsey Police.