TRIBUTES have been paid to the Wiltshire officers who have died in the line of duty.

Bosses of the Wiltshire force supported National Police Memorial Day yesterday and will be holding a minute's silence at 11am today during a special act of remembrance.

The 18th annual commemoration service is an opportunity to recognise and remember the 5,000 officers across the country who have died while doing their the job since records began 180 years ago.

The day aims to demonstrate to the emergency service staff's friends, family and colleagues that these sacrifices in protecting their communities have not been forgotten.

The commemoration service was held in Lincoln Cathedral at 2pm yesterday, though attendance had to be kept to minimal numbers as a precaution to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Wiltshire Police Sergeant Russell Griffin joined the small gathering while accompanying Mrs Harding, whose husband had died while he was a serving Wiltshire Police officer.

Chief Constable Kier Pritchard said: “Events like this are so important, particularly for the families and colleagues directly affected by the loss of a loved one while on duty as a police officer.

"And it is important for wider society to pause for a moment in tribute to the sacrifices which some officers make as well as the courage all our officers show on a daily basis.

"We remember all those who faced danger in their roles every day and ran towards it in order to protect others.

“Policing in modern times is increasingly more demanding but I’m always shocked and deeply saddened to hear of a member of the policing family having lost their life.

“Paying the ultimate price in order to keep our communities safe is nothing short of heroism and I feel so incredibly proud and grateful to those officers.

"I hope their families find some small comfort in knowing how highly respected and valued our lost officers are. I’m humbled by their bravery and dedication to serving the public.”

Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson said: “Collectively remembering those who have lost their lives while protecting and serving the public is one of the greatest measure of thanks any nation can give to those who have fallen.

“I remain humbled by those whose selfless dedication, courage and sacrifice meant they paid the ultimate price so our communities remain safe.

“My thoughts are with those families who will forever mourn the loss of their loved one and those who continue to carry on walking towards danger while others run away.”

Buildings up and down the country were lit blue last night as a mark of respect and tribute to police killed while carrying out their daily work.

The National Police Memorial Day was founded by Joe Holness following the killing of fellow Kent Police officer Jon Odell, in Margate, in December 2000.

Find out more and see edited highlights of this year's commemoration service by visiting www.nationalpolicememorialday.org