POLICE officers and their families from around the country, including representatives of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, will be among those marking National Police Memorial Day today (Sunday).
The event, which started in 2004, is held to remember officers who have died on duty. Since the first salaried constables were appointed in Britain in 1792, almost 4,000 have been killed on duty, according to organisers of the memorial day.
Hampshire Police Federation chairman John Apter, who represents Isle of Wight officers, said today would have added significance following the deaths of PC Nicola Hughes and PC Fiona Bone, who were killed while on duty in Manchester.
"The last police officer that we lost on duty in Hampshire was PC James Drew, in 2009, but today we will be remembering the sacrifices of around 4,000 police officers. It is a very important day for the police family," he said.
A memorial service is due to be held at York Minster, attended by home secretary Theresa May, as well as Mr Apter and Assistant Chief Constable for Hampshire Laura Nicholson.
Reporter: ross.findon@iwcp.co.uk