Officers from Bedfordshire Police Federation will be making a poignant trip to London today for the funeral of PC Keith Palmer.
Thousands of police officers and staff, as well as other emergency service workers and members of the public, will line the streets of the capital ahead of the full police service funeral which is being held at 2pm at Southwark Cathedral.
PC Palmer was stabbed to death in the Westminster terror attack on 22 March.
Bedfordshire Police Federation’s chairman and secretary, Jim Mallen and Emma Carter, will be attending the service along with two other Federated members, DI Jackie Dadd and PC Tim Smart, and Chief Constable Jon Boutcher.
The Federation has also invited other Federation members to travel to London to line the streets and has laid on a coach to help them get there.
“We feel it is very important for us to attend to pay tribute to PC Palmer but also to show our support for his family, his friends and his colleagues,” says Emma
“We are all part of the same policing family and it is important for us to show solidarity. I am sure it is going to be a very emotional day for all concerned but I am equally sure PC Palmer’s funeral service will reflect the high esteem in which he will always be held.”
Numerous train companies have offered free travel to London for officers on the day of the funeral. To qualify officers have to show a valid warrant card although they are advised not to travel in uniform.
The funeral is also likely to be attended by politicians and will be one of the first official engagements for the Met’s new Commissioner Cressida Dick. It will be followed by a private cremation.
A social media campaign under the hashtag #StandforKeith has been shared thousands of times by serving and retired officers.
PC Palmer’s family say they had been ‘overwhelmed’ by the ‘outpouring of love’ for the officer following the atrocity.
In a statement issued days after his death, they said: “We want to thank everyone who has reached out to us over the past few days for their kindness and generosity. The police have been a constant, unwavering support and this very difficult time.
“It has made us realise what a caring, strong and supporting family Keith was part of during his career with the police. We can’t thank them enough.”
