CITIZEN reporter Claire Morrison has a very special reason for remembering January 5, 1983. She was eight years old and tragically lost her father in a drowning accident on that day. Two other officers also died trying to save a man who got into difficulties in the sea during stormy weather. Now, 16 years later, Claire reports on a memorial ceremony for the three officers...

Brave Blackpool police officers who died in the line of duty were remembered 16 years on at a memorial ceremony held in Lancashire's police headquarters in Hutton.

WPC Angela Bradley, aged 23, PC Gordon Alexander Connolly, 24, and PC Colin Morrison, 38, who all drowned attempting to rescue a man from a raging sea at Gynn Square, were honoured during a room re-naming ceremony performed by Lancashire Chief Constable Pauline Clare.

That tragic day on January 5, 1983, is never far from many people's hearts, particularly my own. Although only eight at the time I recall it with painful clarity as the day I lost my dad.

However, such events as this make me proud to call myself the daughter of Colin Morrison who was such a well-thought-of gentleman, police officer and above all a kind and loving father.

My family and I were invited to the ceremony along with the other two officers' relatives. Many colleagues of the three were also present as Pauline Clare spoke with great reverence of the officers and unveiled three conference rooms, one dedicated to each constable - with their name on the door and a large photo of the officer inside.

It was indeed a moving and proud day for all the families as we met up once more under less traumatic circumstances than previously. Everyone was pleased at the naming of the rooms and my mum, Hilary, commented: "I think it is a very lovely thought - the rooms and pictures will be there forever, long after we have gone.

"It is so nice to think that Colin and his two colleagues are still in so many people's hearts and thoughts."

Many people mentioned the fine character of each officer and spoke with a warmth and genuine fondness about them, including dedicated colleague Sergeant Anthony Rae who is currently spending all his spare time compiling the National Police Officers Roll of Honour for constables who have lost their lives in duty.

Sgt Rae explained the impact the event had upon him. "Although I had been working with the Metropolitan Police and only returned to the force the week of the tragedy, I had not forgotten my colleagues.

"The type of officers they were may partly explain why they did not die alone - they would never give up on each other. Their loss I think was the inspiration and start of this Roll of Honour project."

Sgt Rae is hoping to have the book of remembrance completed in time for the Millennium when it will be placed in the National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas, Staffordshire.

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