Each year, Care of Police Survivors brings together the families of officers who have died on duty to the prestigious BPSO event. Now in its fourth decade, the British Police Symphony Orchestra has become one of the best national, non-professional orchestras in the country, and this year, the show was no exception as it wowed the audience with some of the UK’s leading soloists.
Janine Doughty, survivor and partner of PC Bruce Lister, who died on duty in Jan 2023 said:
“Having never been to the event, we didn’t know what to expect, but we all had a great time and are looking forward to going again next year!
The hotel was lovely, both the rooms and the food, and even better as we didn’t have to go outside in the cold to get to the venue. The evening itself was really good fun, especially the last part. We even managed to have a look around the Christmas market before we went home.”
Photo top right shows:
Megan Lister daughter of PC Bruce Lister, Jess Doughty – Janine’s daughter, Janine Doughty, survivor and partner of PC Bruce Lister, who died on duty in Jan 2023, Ben Doughty – son of Janine.
Christine Fulton – Founder of the charity and survivor, said:
“This was my first time attending the BPSO concert, and it far exceeded my expectations; the atmosphere was amazing. The orchestra put on a great performance and everyone joined in with their flags and party poppers. It was good to see over seventy survivors in attendance, many in their Christmas outfits, swapping cards and hugs and, most importantly, being in each other’s company. The hotel was excellent, and the Christmas lunch was superb, if you have never attended the weekend before I would recommend it. Christmas can be such a difficult time for us all so to have this boost at the beginning of December can only be a good thing.”
Ian Kyle – Survivor and nephew of Sergeant George Huges who died on duty in 1979, said:
“This was my first time at this event, it was a truly moving experience and a brilliant evening.
The hymn to the fallen was something really special. You could hear a pin drop in the auditorium when they played that. I had a lump in my throat
I can imagine it was a totally shared experience.”
“I could see that survivors have an unbreakable bond to witness this once again is something special.”
Peer support is at the heart of Care of Police Survivors
The BPSO event holds a special place in the heart of COPS calendar. The atmosphere brings the festive season together with moments to reflect and unite as a family.
If you’d like to find out more about the charity – click here.