Survivors complete Morocco mountain challenge

A group of survivors who met as children through COPS have completed a gruelling trek up the highest mountain in Morocco and North Africa.

The group recently hiked to the summit of Toubkal, a mountain peak in southwestern Morocco, in a trip organised by mountaineering company Aspire2Summit.

Vicky Moore, daughter of PC Bryan Moore from Leicestershire Police, said she wanted to mark 20 years since her father died, and give something back to the charity she says was crucial in forging life-long friendships for her and her family. 

She said she was offered the chance to do the trek and jumped at it – roping in her brothers and fellow COPS survivors.

Vicky did the trek with her partner Sam, and her brothers Jonathon and Christopher, and Christopher’s partner Sophie, with Rebecca and Matthew Walker, the children of PC Ged walker from Nottinghamshire Police, who died in 2003.

The group were joined by officers from Leicester police.

Vicky said she had an amazing time, but the trek was not without some very real challenges and difficulties.

“The first day went really well – in fact what should have been a six-to-eight-hour day we did in four hours,” she said.

“It was a slow and steady ascent and the team just started chatting from the off. It was lovely as some of the officers worked with my father and were sharing stories and memories they had of him.

“There was instantly a sense of support from everyone, and we were all determined to get to the summit.

“The second day however the weather was terrible. We battled snow, 40pmh wind, rain, and hail. This proved more of a mental challenge but like the day before we got through by supporting each other.

“Some people suffered altitude sickness, and when we reached the 4,000m point there was some consideration to turn around and go back due to high winds but everyone said they really wanted to make the summit. 

“Finally, after a rough three-hour ascent we made the 4,167m summit – all together. There was a mix of elation, relief, and emotion!”

She added: “We all shared photos and had a moment to reflect and remember those we were walking for – especially as COPS trustee and former chief constable Simon Cole was meant to be a part of the group. 

“The descent was a lot easier – but there were a few tumbles but luckily no major injuries. We finally made it to the bottom and had some well-earned tea and cake and rest.”

Stu Prior, a Leicester police officer for 29 years but now with East Midlands, said: “The Morocco trip was fantastic although the weather wasn’t, we contended with clouds, mist, rain, high winds, and then heat in Marrakesh on our return – all made worse by the beautiful weather back in the UK.

“It was really great though to meet the families that have been supported by COPS. We had a lot of banter and interesting and in-depth chats, and it became absolutely clear the support COPS has provided to their families.”

Vicky said: “I can hand on heart honestly say this was one of my best trips ever. The people, the experience, and the scenery were all incredible. Ken and Dan from Aspire2Summit were amazing – they guided the team really well and their expert knowledge is second to none. 

“I have made friends for life with some of my father’s colleagues and we are even thinking about attempting another mountain in the future.”

As if the hike wasn’t enough, the group of survivors will also be taking part in the Police Unity Tour in August, which culminates at an annual service of remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum as part of COPS Survivor Weekend.

People can still donate to the group via http://www.justgiving.com/kidsofCOPs22.