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An annual event that sees police, family and supporters come together in the Lake District to light flares at dawn in memory of colleagues who have died returns for its 13th year this year.
Taking place on 20- 21 June 2025, Light the Lakes will once again see participants climbing peaks across the Lake District, lighting flares as the sun rises to honour and remember officers and staff who have lost their lives.
Since the first event in April 2012, which was organised to remember murdered Surrey DC Heather Cooper and raise money to support her children, Light the Lakes has become an established event in the climber’s diary.
As well as raising funds for Care of Police Survivors (COPS) as in previous years, this year two additional charities will receive a share of funds raised. PTSD999, which provides support and funding for emergency workers suffering from PTSD, and The Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association, the umbrella body for mountain rescue teams in Cumbria, are both being supported as part of this year’s event.
Light the Lakes is always a poignant time for reflection, with the glow of flares across the Lakes offering a sign of remembrance, celebration of life, and hope. Many participants return year on year, often bringing friends and colleagues.
Speaking as the 30-day countdown to this year’s event began, Event Lead Vinny Wagjiani, an officer with Kent Police said “The team and I are really excited for another brilliant Light the Lakes this year.
“This year we have added two more brilliant charities to our fundraising efforts, and we are at a brand new venue for our welcome pack collections and for our Saturday get together which we’re really looking forward to.
“Each year the event is always such a great opportunity to catch up with friends from across the country, but also an opportunity to take the time and space to remember colleagues and friends who are no longer with us, which is so important to me, the team, and those who join us.
“We are always offered a lovely warm welcome in Cumbria and often receive messages of support from local residents, and sometimes even visitors who have heard about the event, who get up to watch flares appear across the peaks at dawn.
“Any residents or visitors who are interested are really welcome to take part, you don’t have to have a connection to the police, we’d love to see you there!”
With the hope of having representation from all police forces in England and Wales, and for teams to cover all 214 Wainwright Fells, anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to check out and book one of the remaining available peaks online.
All participants are invited to a relaxed get together in the afternoon following the event Saturday 21 May), which offers the opportunity to unwind with food and drink, music and entertainment, and to share memories and experiences with colleagues and friends.
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