The 11^th November marks Remembrance Day and due to the ongoing public health emergency, events to mark the day will be very different than those in the past. As the nation prepares to pay its respects, our communities are reminded that they can still do so whilst adhering to current Covid-19 restrictions.

Speaking ahead of Remembrance Day 2020, Police & Crime Commissioner Alun Michael said:

“On the 4th August 1914, Britain entered the First World War following Germany’s invasion of Belgium. It was to be a war the like of which had not been seen before. Millions fought and died. Several hundred police officers from our predecessor forces of Glamorgan, Cardiff, Swansea, Merthyr and Neath served in the armed forces. In total 90 officers died. Many were wounded. Some were recognised for their gallantry. On the 11th November we mark the end of hostilities, on that day in 1918.

“As we look to pay our respects on Remembrance Day in 2020, we know that things will be very different.  The constraints caused by Covid-19 continue to disrupt and limit our normal daily activities but it’s very important for us to remember why this is necessary -  we have to work together to keep people safe, avoid infection and protect the NHS. 

“Each year our officers and staff gather at South Wales Police Headquarters, along with family members of colleagues who have tragically lost their lives, to remember those who have died in the line of duty. This year, we will mark Remembrance Day once more but more quietly than usual as I will join the Chief Constable and his chief officers to show our respects.

“You can still mark this occasion at home, online and by joining events which will be broadcast on TV. It is a challenging time for us all, particularly when we are so used to coming together to honour those who have fallen but I urge everyone to keep to the rules and help prevent the spread of Covid-19; we cannot afford to let our efforts slip. That would be a huge waste of the sacrifices most people throughout our communities across South Wales have made so far.

“We look forward to a future in which we will once again be able to pay our respects together at events across our communities…lest we forget.”