The Police Superintendents’ Association (PSA) has formally unveiled a memorial to a superintendent killed on duty on the 50th anniversary of his death.

Monday 23rd August marked 50 years since the death of Supt Gerry Richardson GC of Lancashire Police, who was shot on duty when apprehending an armed robber. He was posthumously awarded the George Cross for his bravery.

To mark the historic date, a special event was held at the association’s recently refurbished HQ in Pangbourne, Berkshire.
 
Current PSA President, Chief Superintendent Paul Griffiths gave a presentation on the history and current priorities of the association to invited guests including former PSA presidents and national secretaries, before unveiling a formal memorial to Gerry Richardson GC.

PSA President Paul Griffiths with former PSA National Secretary Ron West who served with the association between 1985 and 1987.

The memorial will be housed at the PSA HQ, alongside other memorabilia detailing the history and heritage of the association.
 
Paul Griffiths explained, “Gerry’s death was a tragic and poignant moment in our Service’s history. He was shot at point blank range when attempting to apprehend an armed robber who was fleeing a jewellers in a busy street in Blackpool.  The shock and impact of the murder was such that around 100,000 people lined the streets for Gerry’s funeral.
 
“It is fitting for our association to mark the anniversary of his death, but also to take the opportunity to formally recognise all those superintendents and chief superintendents who have given the ultimate sacrifice for public duty.”
 
Paul and the Police Superintendents’ Association are active supporters of police memorial charities. Paul is a trustee of the Police Arboretum Memorial Trust, which he raised funds for last year by cycling unsupported from John O Groats to Land’s End and this year he raised money for the Police Roll of Honour Trust by walking the Pennine Way.  PSA National Secretary Dan Murphy is a trustee of the Roll of Honour Trust.