A SPECIAL memorial service to honour former police officers who died during the pandemic was held at Wimborne Minster.

Members of the Dorset Branch of the National Association of Retired Police Officers and 37 representatives from the relevant families gathered for the service.

Each family was given a lighted candle as a token of respect for the life and service of the deceased. During the period of funeral restrictions 67 members sadly died and each name was read out to the congregation.

The service was put together by the Dorset NARPO Chaplain Allen Knott, himself a retired officer, who was assisted in the preparation by the organisation’s welfare officers and members of the committee.

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The Dorset Police Male Voice Choir sang music that enhanced the dignity and poignancy of the service.

Special guests included the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell, the Chief Constable, Scott Chilton, and a representative from Nicholas O’Hara Funeral Directors who had supplied the local branch with a coffin drape for use during funerals and who also supplied the service sheets.

The preacher was The Revd. Canon Adrian Gatrill, Chair of Police Chaplaincy UK.

Prayers were said by the Lead Chaplain of Dorset Police Revd. Canon Simon Evans and the Revd. Nick Wells welcomed everyone on behalf of the Rector and Minster staff.

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At the end of the service the Chief Constable gave an address in which he paid tribute to those who had given service to the people of Dorset and reflected on the fine tradition of loyal service that was the legacy of the departed.

Allen Knott, who led the service said "When I suggested to the NARPO committee that we should hold this service they readily agreed and have given tremendous help and support.

"It was our wish that, although we were unable to attend the funerals of our deceased colleagues we should do something to demonstrate our respect for them and our support for their families.

"I am so pleased that so many accepted our invitation and shared with us in our united act of remembrance. I would like to thank the Rector and staff of the Minster who gave us every assistance."