Police family pays tribute to murdered PC 10 years on

POLICE officers joined family and friends in remembering PC Sharon Beshenivsky on the 10th anniversary of her death.

A memorial service took place in Norfolk Gardens in Bradford city centre on Wednesday 18 November. Flowers were the laid at PC Beshenivsky’s memorial as the service drew to a close in the wet weather.

Attendees at the ceremony included PC Teresa Milburn, who was injured in the incident 10 years ago.

West Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Dee Collins, who is also President of the British Association for Women in Policing, was also there.

PC Beshenivsky was murdered on 18 November 2005 responding to a robbery report.

Nick Smart, Chairman of West Yorkshire Police Federation, laid flowers during the ceremony on behalf of the Federation and all its members.

Mr Smart said: “Our thoughts today are with Sharon’s husband Paul and all the family who still miss her dearly. We will always remember her.

“Police officers never know what they will face when the call comes in – the potential dangers are all too familiar for West Yorkshire Police officers.

“We run towards danger – and sadly some colleagues have paid the ultimate sacrifice. When they do, it is only right and proper that we keep them in our thoughts.”

Chief Superintendent Simon Atkin said: “Our thoughts are still with Paul and his family as we recall that fateful day 10 years ago when Sharon was killed in the line of duty.

“We come together as friends within the police family to reflect and support as we ensure that Sharon will not be forgotten.”