The Chief Constable of North Wales Police will join more than 1,500 people in Belfast this weekend for a national service remembering officers who have died in the line of duty.

National Police Memorial Day takes place on Sunday, September 27, bringing together police officers, families, friends and colleagues from forces across the United Kingdom to remember those who lost their lives while serving their communities.

Chief Constable Amanda Blakeman KPM will represent North Wales Police at the service, which recognises the courage and commitment of officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Chief Constable Blakeman said the event was an opportunity to remember not only the officers who died, but also the families, friends and colleagues who continue to live with their loss.

“Behind every name is a family, a circle of friends and colleagues, and a life dedicated to helping and protecting people,” she said.

“It is important that we take time to remember them and recognise the sacrifice that was made.

“Our thoughts are also with the families and loved ones left behind. This day reminds us that they remain part of the wider policing family and that their loss is never forgotten.”

National Police Memorial Day was established to ensure officers who die on duty are remembered and honoured, while giving their families an opportunity to see that their sacrifice has not been forgotten.

North Wales Police Lead Police Chaplain Angela Leighton-Jones said the annual service was a chance to pause and reflect on the people behind the names being remembered.

“Each name stands for far more than a uniform,” she said.

“Each was a much-loved family member, friend, and colleague, a person who served their community with courage, dedication, and compassion.”

She said the loss continued to be felt by families, friends and colleagues, as well as the wider policing community.

“Whatever our faith or belief, we stand together in remembrance,” she added.

“They served. They are remembered. They will not be forgotten.”

The service in Belfast will bring together representatives from police forces and communities across the UK in a shared act of remembrance.

People can find out more about National Police Memorial Day and leave a digital tribute through the National Police Memorial Day website.