PSA unveils memorial to superintendent who died in the line of duty
The Police Superintendents’ Association (PSA) has formally unveiled a memorial to a superintendent killed on duty on the 50th anniversary of his death.
Today (August 23) marks 50 years since the death of Superintendent Gerry Richardson of Lancashire Constabulary, who was shot on duty when apprehending an armed robber. He was posthumously awarded the George Cross for his bravery.
To mark the historic date, a special event was held at the PSA’s recently refurbished headquarters in Pangbourne, Berkshire.
Current PSA president, Chief Superintendent Paul Griffiths, gave a presentation on the history and current priorities of the association to invited guests, which included former PSA presidents and national secretaries, including Ron West who served as national secretary between 1985 and 1987, before unveiling a formal memorial to Mr Richardson.
The memorial will be housed at the PSA headquarters, alongside other memorabilia detailing the history and heritage of the association.
Mr Griffiths said: “Gerry’s death was a tragic and poignant moment in our service’s history. He was shot at point-blank range when attempting to apprehend an armed robber who was fleeing a jewellers in a busy street in Blackpool. The shock and impact of the murder was such that around 100,000 people lined the streets for Gerry’s funeral.
“It is fitting for our association to mark the anniversary of his death, but also to take the opportunity to formally recognise all those superintendents and chief superintendents who have given the ultimate sacrifice for public duty.”
Mr Griffiths and the PSA are active supporters of police memorial charities. Mr Griffiths is a trustee of the Police Arboretum Memorial Trust, which he raised funds for last year by cycling unsupported from John O Groats to Land’s End, and this year he raised money for the Police Roll of Honour Trust by walking the Pennine Way. PSA national secretary Dan Murphy is a trustee of the Roll of Honour Trust.
