National Police Memorial Day
Plans for an annual National Police Memorial Day (NPMD) were first initiated in May 2001 by now retired Kent Inspector Joe Holness OBE QPM, following the brutal death of his colleague Constable Jon Odell in Margate in December 2000. It is now recognised by the royal family, the government, and senior officials as a significant day on the policing calendar.
NPMD aims to:
- Remember the police officers who have been killed or died on duty
- Demonstrate to relatives, friends, and colleagues of fallen officers that their sacrifice is not forgotten
- Recognise annually the dedication to duty and courage displayed by police officers
Services have been held across the UK to mark the national contribution made by the police. The inaugural service was held at St Paul’s Cathedral on Sunday, 3rd October 2004.
Services have since been held each year on the nearest Sunday to Saint Michael’s Day [29th September], the Patron Saint of Police, rotating yearly around England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Next Memorial Day
- The 23rd National Police Memorial Day will take place on Sunday, 27th September 2026, at Waterfront Hall, Belfast.
- The booking site will open soon.