Garden party for retired police

5:50pm Saturday 6th September 2008

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WEST Mercia Constabulary is hosting a garden party at its force headquarters, Hindlip Hall near Worcester, tomorrow for around 400 retired police officers and staff.

The event offers the guests, who include the widows and widowers of retired police officers and staff from across the West Mercia area, the chance to enjoy a fun day out, which will include a display by the specialist dog unit based at Hindlip Hall.

A Service of Thanksgiving at St James’s Church is also planned for 2pm, followed by several activities in the afternoon.

Community support officers will be showcasing new bicycles now in use across many parts of the force area aimed at improving their effectiveness while on duty.

A special exhibition for guests interested in the history of Hindlip Hall and the West Mercia force will be held in the main hall, a Grade II listed Georgian manor house.

West Mercia Constabulary was created in 1967, bringing together the then forces of Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcester City.

Guests will be able to take a special bus tour of the estate and enjoy entertainment throughout the afternoon, provided by band, Arrhythmics.

Paul West, Chief Constable of West Mercia Constabulary, said: “It is important for us to remember the contribution that our former colleagues made towards the safety and security of our communities.

“This garden party is a great opportunity for retired police officers, staff and their widows and widowers, from across the whole of the West Mercia force area, to meet up with former colleagues, make new friends and enjoy a fun day out.”

Eddie Barry, chairman of the National Association of Retired Police Officers, added: “Events like this play an important role in helping to keep retired police officers and staff involved with what’s currently happening at the force.

“It should be a really enjoyable day for everyone involved.”