The police family is just that – a family. And I know all too well the sadness that is felt when one of our own is lost.

I might be absolutely terrified at the thought of jumping out of an airplane but I am motivated by the fact that any money raised will go towards a permanent memorial to the men and women who have died in the course of protecting people from harm whilst serving as police officers.

The UK Police Memorial will be at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire and will be dedicated to the courage and sacrifice of the thousands of officers who have lost their lives over the past 250 years.

It will be my privilege to help the charity achieve its fundraising goal.

Andy Marsh
Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police