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The first recipients of the Elizabeth Emblem, which recognises emergency services workers who have died in the line of duty, have been announced.
First announced in March this year, the Elizabeth Emblem, named after the late Queen, was awarded to the next of kin of over 30 former firefighters, police officers and other public servants who have died in public service.
The Elizabeth Emblem is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.
Among those recognised was Avon Fire and Rescue Service’s Fleur Lombard, the first female firefighter to die on duty in peacetime Britain. Fleur died while tackling a blaze started by an arsonist at supermarket near Bristol in 1996.
Following her tragic death, the Fleur Lombard Bursary was set up as a fitting tribute to Fleur’s bravery, courage, dedication and professionalism. The fund aims to keep Fleur’s values alive, helping others to progress their careers in the fire and rescue service.
Greater Manchester Police PCs Fiona Bone and Nicola Hughes, who were killed in an ambush while responding to a hoax 999 call in September 2012, were also among those recognised.
Following the deaths, the father of PC Nicola Hughes, Bryn Hughes, set up the PC Nicola Hughes Memorial Fund. Its aim is to provide learning opportunities and pre employment skills to people (under 21) who have suffered a tragic loss of a close family member through a violent crime such as murder or manslaughter.
When a colleague dies in the line of duty shockwaves and sadness reverberate throughout policing. The families, friends and loved ones left behind bear the enduring pain of sacrifice in public service. We owe them a debt of gratitude as we remember their loved ones, always. We recognise their next of kin and pay tribute to them.
Gavin Stephens, Chair of the National Police Chiefs’ Council
Families and next of kin of those who have died in public service are encouraged to apply for an Elizabeth Emblem.
Click here for the full list of Elizabeth Emblem recipients.
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