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CHIEF CONSTABLE FOREWORD CONTENTS Challenging times ahead 03 Foreword ur day-to-day business changed dramatically in the lead up to 04 Team Award for MDP Project Servator preparing this most recent edition 05 Proud to Serve - Force response to COVID-19 of Talk Through, with MDP officers and staff being called upon to provide our 06 Interview with ACC Dave Long Oresponse to Covid-19. 10 Spotlight on Barrow Times like this demonstrate how important 12 LGBT History Month it is for the Force to be ready for any eventuality and shows how varied a policing 15 Flying the Flags for Diversity function can be. 16 MDP Sports Stars The MDP provides an essential service which 20 Op Clockface has to be maintained regardless of what is 23 Op Heartland happening around us. That sometimes places members of our workforce in harm’s way - but 24 Crime Command Success that is the essence of public service and the including the critical part we played in keeping 25 Retired Officers’ Association oath our officers swore when they joined. the wheels of the Department turning, in Whitehall, during the Extinction Rebellion 26 HM Naval Base Clyde, Cairn Memorial One of the many pleasures I have as Chief protests last year. 27 CNC MOU Constable is briefing Ministers and other key stakeholders on the excellent work being done The transfer of the newest member of the 27 Graduations by the Ministry of Defence Police, day in and British Fleet - HMS Prince of Wales - from 28 Officer’s stem cell donation stories day out. Scotland to First Entry at Portsmouth - as well as its recent courtesy visit to Merseyside, 31 Op Viscount As we start a new decade and move ahead escorted throughout by the MDP Marine Unit, 31 ONUS Platinum Award towards next year’s Golden Anniversary of also feature, as does a recent success from the foundation of the Force, there is much to our ever-vigilant Crime Command. 32 Police Scotland Youth Volunteers report that reflects well, including many of the events recorded in this latest edition of our The Chief Officer Group remains committed 34 Jamie’s Everest Challenge showcase magazine, Talk Through. to the introduction across the Force of fitness 36 Our People standards, in line with those of the College of The ‘Highly Commended’ Team Award, Policing, so it is good to see several reports 40 MDP in the Social Media received at the Government Security within the following pages of outstanding 42 Kirsty’s eXXpedition Conference Awards, is a prime example of individual sporting achievements by some of well-deserved success and I congratulate all our officers. involved for this notable achievement. Furthermore, it is so positive to read Managing Editor: Talk Through is distributed free to MDP employees, Recently, I was able to report to the Baroness reflections from members of our LGBT+ Norman Hicks partner organisations and customers. Copies may Goldie DL, Minister of State in the House Network, shared online earlier this year for [email protected] be sent outside the MOD and it is published on Gov. of Lords, on our successful recruitment LGBT+ History Month. As a Force we remain UK. While the editor takes care to ensure all material campaign, which last year saw over 400 new committed to ensuring our workforce reflects Design: produced is accurate, no liability can be accepted for recruits join MDP. This was largely thanks to the diversity of the communities we serve. Maxine Parsley carefully targeted advertising on social media errors or omissions. Views expressed in Talk Through, and the hard work of the recruitment team I hope that you enjoy this edition of Talk Photography: are not necessarily endorsed by MDP or the MOD. All to ensure swift progression of candidates Through, published online only on this Neil Parry, Paul Kemp editorial submissions must be cleared by the relevant throughout the process. The achievement occasion, and if you have any feedback or MOD authorities. Crown Copyright drew high praise from the Minister for all ideas for future features, please contact the Contributors: responsible for the campaign’s success. Corporate Communications team. Katy Lockyer, Ewan Muir, David Dufton, www.gov.uk Geoff Heal, Neil Hopkins, Chris Bain, Tracy Assistant Chief Constable Dave Long reflects Ross, Jamie Ironmonger, Kirsty Young @MODPolice on the MDP’s response to COVID-19 and has been talking to the Editor of Talk Through Printing and Distribution: about our recent operational successes, AndyAdams cds.co.uk @ministryofdefencepolice 3 MDP Project Servator In challenging times… Proud to Serve ‘highly commended’ s we all continue to confront the challenges, particularly during unseasonably Coronavirus pandemic - the biggest good weather and the recent Bank Holiday challenge the UK (and indeed the weekends, where extra patrols and reinforced world) has faced in decades – the MDP messaging have been required. at awards response remains strong, delivering for Defence andA the communities we serve and playing our hree years on since first adopting Effective engagement with members of the Project Servator at HM Naval Base communities that the MDP Project Servator part in implementing new policing powers, in a Portsmouth, the MDP has received team serve, in and outside the wire, has also rapidly changing landscape. a ‘Highly Commended’ Team strengthened the counter-terrorism focus Initial response to a national emergency Award at the 2020 Government Security on being vigilant and reporting anything that TConference Awards. does not seem right. When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe during the early part of the year, Among more that 180 nominees at the Project Servator, first developed with a national lockdown that commenced on annual awards event, this was a significant The next phase achievement. and introduced by the Centre for the 23 March, the MDP Gold Cell and Strategic Protection of National Infrastructure Command Group, led by ACC Dave Long and As we now move into the next phase of Assistant Chief Constable Dave Long (CPNI) and the City of London Police ACC Andrea Bishop, pushed forward at pace controlling coronavirus, the MDP will continue commented: in 2014, is a national policing tactic, with putting into practice robust business to police by consent, using common sense and “This is a fantastic outcome for the devised to disrupt a range continuity plans. discretion to determine what is reasonable, and MDP Project Servator team, recognising of criminal activity, including terrorism, The priority was, and still is, to protect all MDP only enforce as a last resort. the collective efforts of all involved - whilst providing a reassuring presence for personnel and their families, whilst ensuring that In this together operationally and in support roles - to the public. the MDP continues to operate effectively and ensure the high standard and effectiveness efficiently throughout the crisis. Despite the challenges that we all face, a of our deployments.” To find out more, visit our Project constant throughout the crisis has been the Servator page on GOV.UK and follow Whether in the workplace, deployed The MDP’s highly visible Project Servator mantra that we’re ‘in this together’, in a national the MDP and #Project Servator on operationally or working from home, the effort to fight the virus, and that has been clear deployments, with supporting assets (such social media. dedication and resilience of all departments and as police dogs and armed officers) and to see by the MDP workforce, both in and team members across the Force has ensured outside the wire. a focus on community engagement and the ongoing delivery of essential MDP outputs. collaboration with local forces, have seen In joined up working with policing and security an increase in arrests for theft, possession This was recognised by CC Andy Adams, on partners and in engagement with stakeholders, of offensive weapons and drugs and traffic 26 March, just three days into the national Defence personnel, and members of the public, and immigration offences, along with an lockdown, when he said: a collective sense of positive support, empathy increase in intelligence gathering. “As we all adapt to a new way of life and new and compassion has outweighed negativity. That ways of working, I want to say a huge thank you sentiment has, of course, also been expressed Crown Copyright: Cabinet Office to all MDP colleagues who continue to Deliver tangibly in all the wonderful rainbow pictures for Defence and remain focused on the safety of and window messages MDP officers have seen the communities that we serve.” and, during the weekly Clap for Our Carers, when the Force has joined the nation to clap and An unprecedented role for policing sound its sirens to say thank you to the NHS, In frontline roles, MDP officers are playing their carers and all keyworkers for everything they part, alongside colleagues in other forces, to have done and everything they continue to do. ensure the safety of the public by using a four- For more information: phased approach to engage, explain, encourage and, only as a last resort, enforce policing gov.uk/coronavirus Police Sergeant Guy Hibbert, MDP powers under the Coronavirus Act 2020. COVID-19 Hub - college.police.uk Project Servator Lead Trainer and The MDP has been pleased to see most people National Project Servator Trainer collects acting responsibly and doing the right thing, 4 TT Spring 2020 the award from Dominic Fortescue, by following government guidance on social NEXT: INTERVIEW WITH ACC LONG05 >> Government Chief Security Officer distancing. However, there have been some EXCLUSIVE Written by: Norman Hicks Interview with ACC Dave Long

“Everyone seems to be ‘getting on with it’ and adapting to a crisis that is both unprecedented The response Pandemic and at the same time absolutely-tragic for those directly affected, through the loss of loved ones, and those impacted by the worry and anxiety has been, not response eclipses that a pandemic brings. surprisingly, what “Colleagues are adapting to working differently by necessity, which challenges the mindset MDP always does of always doing things a certain way. The challenging year operational delivery is holding up and we are which is to rise to the keeping it under constant review. When Talk Through caught up with challenge and ‘crack “Everything we are doing is aligned to ACC Dave Long earlier this year, for maintaining a twin-track approach, to support on with things’ a look back over what had been a what the MOD are doing and to monitor what’s happening from a National Police Chiefs’ Council one stage was probably close to 300 and, as challenging previous 12 months, the perspective. a consequence of that, we had to rely heavily COVID-19 global pandemic was only on staff working overtime to be able to sustain “My commitment is to ensure that the safety of outputs. in its infancy. our people remains a priority in all that we do and that we deliver our policing services to the “For me, there have been some significant best of our ability; be that for Defence and other achievements, because in amongst the customers, or the greater good of the national difficulties, is the maintenance of business as ithin days of our interview, the functions operating across the Force”. policing effort.” usual, by which I mean everything to do with world had been turned upside delivering the protection of the strategic nuclear down and, as Gold Commander, ACC Long thanked those who had ‘helped As the Operation has progressed steps have deterrent and all the component parts that feed ACC Long was leading the to stand up and operate the command been taken to develop the resilience in key into that enterprise. Force response to the COVID-19 national structure successfully’, including the Gold command roles, with ACC Andrea Bishop and Wemergency, with the operation being focused Support Team, led up Chief Insp Jimmy Ch Supt Dave Pawley now providing regular “It’s across US Visiting Forces, it’s across the on ensuring the safety and security of MDP Carr, Silver Commander, Chief Supt Dennis support and coverage. There will be more on the CNI and DM sites, it also includes other places officers and staff, and theotection pr of MOD Jackson, and SMEs from SHEP, Welfare, HR, Force response to COVID-19 in that have a relative importance to others, i.e. sites, assets and people, including those in Corporate Communications, Firearms, OCC, the next edition of Talk Through. MOD Main Building in Whitehall, because of the the surrounding communities. Head of Establishment, Finance, CIS, the location of where it is, GCHQ and the Dockyards. DPF, Trade Unions and all teams who play During a Force dial-in, two weeks into the an important role in MDP business outputs. A CHALLENGING 12 MONTHS “They are all really important and we continue to national lockdown, ACC Long explained the deliver across all of those areas.” operation’s strategic intent. ACC Long continued: “The response has In his retrospective interview earlier this year, been, not surprisingly, what MDP always ACC Long began by saying: A target to recruit 400 officers, toestor r e He said: “Simplistically, it’s about does which is to rise to the challenge complemented numbers, has been a real stretch, implementing Business Continuity Plans, and ‘crack on with things’. That’s quite a “I am never surprised how MDP rises to a said ACC Long, but before the arrival of the keeping our people safe, managing the commendable organisational trait to have challenge and the challenge I am talking pandemic the recruitment campaign had been on impact, generating surge resources and when everyone will have their own personal/ about, as I reflect over the last 12 months, is track and did actually reach that number. seeking to deliver as much of our operational family concerns about what COVID-19 maintaining operational delivery whilst dealing outputs as possible – whilst still maintaining means to them. with an under-bearing across the Force that at an ability to keep other business critical 7 There have been challenges around the Force built in Caledonia, out to sea and around to Meeting upon reaching response to customer demands and meeting Portsmouth for its first port of entry. initial operational capability those expectations. ACC Long said: “There were some resourcing at Barrow-In-Furness in He said: “We work productively with our challenges and logistical challenges but our November 2019: ACC customers to try to get a better understanding experience from doing the same for HMS Dave Long (right), pictured and inform the debate as to whether there is a Queen Elizabeth was put to good effect and different way to do something – can we be more we were able to review, learn and improve, to be with (L-R) SPO Insp Ewan efficient, and more creative around how we able to complete a successful operation for the Muir, Chief Supt Ops deliver the tasking, how we deliver the policing second time. Dennis Jackson and PS or security effect on behalf of Defence, and how we provide reassurance on security risk?” “Linked in with that, was HMS Queen Elizabeth Mike Finlinson. going in for maintenance on the east coast of Other particular challenges in the previous year Scotland - again a proven operation, including to provide such equipment, then I am clear we involved major events, such as the D-Day 75 both marine policing and armed policing to NEW TASKS must do what is needed as quickly as possible commemorations at Portsmouth. provide security when the carrier was in berth and make the necessary financial decisions there.” “During the past year we have worked closely around those priorities. “This was a very significant event for MDP, with various customers to set up new tasks, such working in partnership with Hampshire Police Moving on to another challenging operational as the new complement that is in the process of and other stakeholders, as well as all the MOD demand, this time concerning protest, ACC being established at Barrow-in-Furness, as part HEADQUARTERS representation that was there. The support Long said: “We have seen a growing threat from of the Defence Nuclear Enterprise. “In the last year we carried out a review of the that we provided to Hants Police was really Extinction Rebellion protests across the UK. HQ Ops structure. This was to ensure the Force well received, and that is all credit to the MDP Last year, when protests took place in London, “We have also established some small, but is delivering its operational requirements and operation which was overseen by Ch Supt Dave our effective joint working capabilities were once unique, community policing complements at we’ve done what needs to be done to maintain Pawley and delivered by MDP Portsmouth and again demonstrated by our ability to protect Salisbury and Longmoor (Aldershot), to support customer satisfaction, as well as demonstrate other specialist teams. Defence interests around MOD buildings, whilst the Defence Infrastructure Organisation training that we can deliver good and effective services. seamlessly operating directly with Met Police, estate. We have also done some fine tuning to make “The operation showed two real strengths of BTP, City of London Police and other policing sure the structure is adequately serving MDP; the ability to link in with what Defence partners in that area.” MEETING TRAINING DEMANDS frontline operations and is not adding a layer needs - that core defence interest - and the of bureaucracy to the demands already placed ability to interoperate effectively with the local ACC Long concluded his reflections by saying: “Sustaining core and mandatory training needs, on senior police officers out on the ound.gr We partner Force, making sure we ended up with a “Finally, I would like to signpost the outstanding whilst the supply of National Firearms Instructors haven’t always got that right in the past, but I am seamless operation which delivered the armed work achieved by colleagues delivering and is still being developed, remains a logistical committed to making improvements. as well as unarmed policing effects, like Project supporting Project Servator deployments. challenge and, alongside this, resourcing Servator, outside the wire.” The Government Security Conference ‘Highly operations and delivering training requirements “I like to spend a couple of hours with newly- Commended’ Team Award is a fantastic for the 400 new entrants joining us - from other promoted Sergeants and Inspectors during their Other things that the MDP have been involved achievement and this has also been endorsed forces and as new recruits - places significant leadership courses, to chat through with them with include the second carrier - HMS Prince of with high praise by the National Project Servator burden on available resources. what it means to be a leader within the MDP, Wales - which was commissioned in December, Team for the MDP’s exemplary standard of and reinforce what the expectations are from with the Force playing a key role in the overall operational delivery. Well done to everybody “That is where a really close working relationship the Chief Officer oup,Gr particularly around policing operation to get it from where it was who has played their part in this achievement.” between the Operational Capability Centre and HQ Ops, as the intelligent customer, is essential, empowerment, leading people, problem solving to ensure flexibility on training dates and and creating solutions that bring about change. resources. Where we have available capability from officers based at stations with a secondary “Our people do some really excellent work, training qualification, we can also eleaser those day in and day out and I don’t need to single individuals to assist with the overall delivery plan. out particular people or stations, because it’s common across the Force. Thanks to everyone, PROCUREMENT both frontline and back-office, that enable the Force to deliver its outputs - I am really grateful “We have procured some key pieces of for all your hard work and support which makes equipment this year. From my perspective, I want me very #ProudToBeMDP.” to make sure our officers have got the right kit, the right equipment, and the right training to be able to be deployed. If there are any health and 8 TT Autumn 2019 safety obligations on me (on behalf of the Chief) 9 STATION SPOTLIGHT

New role for MDP at Written by: Barrow-in-Furness Ewan Muir Work on standard operating procedures, in addition to carrying out their core role. The ith the task of setting up a new MDP station and agreeing Memorandums of Understanding work they have carried out on site and within complement at the BAES facility at Barrow-in-Furness with Cumbria Constabulary, as well as the local community has already enhanced regular consultation with BAE security and our relationship with SDA, BAES and Cumbria on track for completion next year, Insp Ewan Muir, Senior Securitas (the civilian security force on site) Constabulary. Regular drug and explosive Police Officer, explains how the Force set about the was completed, ensuring that the necessary dog patrols have taken place at the BAES site implementation challenge that began in June last year. preparation was in place for MDP to deliver in collaboration with Cumbria Constabulary W operational capability. and BAES security which has reassured In June 2019, both myself and Sergeant Michael Our immediate milestone was to achieve Initial the customer and stakeholder with positive Prior to the start of IOC we welcomed our Finlinson arrived at BAES Barrow-in-Furness, in Operational Capability (IOC) which was achieved feedback received. Partnership working with first permanent officers to station, PS Frank Cumbria, as the Complement Implementation in November 2019. Regular engagement with Cumbria Constabulary will continue as it is also Bowen on promotion from OCC and PC Team and we immediately began work to our customer, the Submarine Delivery Agency intended that Project Servator deployments Natasha Marshall from MDP Whitehall. With establish a new MDP station and complement (SDA) and other key stakeholders, ensured will be introduced, once the permanent the permanent officer levels at that point being there. BAES were able to integrate MDP into their complement size has increased. infrastructure. unable to make us self-sufficient, officerse wer For those who are unfamiliar with the geography detached from Operational Support Unit (North), Permanent resourcing of the station is ongoing, of Barrow, it is located on the tip of a peninsula SDA and BAES identified an area for permanent Rolls Royce Raynesway, Clyde Group and therefore regular engagement takes place with in the Irish Sea and is a short distance from the MDP accommodation, and we contacted Donnington. Barrow comes under the Special the recruitment and communication teams at picturesque Lake District. relatively new stations with a similar size Escort Group therefore additional support was HQ, to ensure vacancies are being advertised. complement, including NRTE Vulcan and Rolls provided by our line management team, Supt A local recruitment event, held in the Barrow Barrow itself is the second largest town in Royce Raynesway, to assist us with replicating Chris Yates and Ch Insp Jeff Renton. area at the beginning of the year, was Cumbria after Carlisle and has a population of similar facilities at Barrow. IOC DELIVERED advertised on social media and consequently around 67,000. BAES is currently in the process attended by over 50 individuals. This resulted of building the Astute class submarines there Inspectors Vinnie Reid and Tony Parton held in a significant number of applications being and will build the Trident class successor, focus groups amongst the officers at these Since IOC was reached in November 2019, MDP officers have dealt with several immediate received from external candidates for the Dreadnought. stations, regarding existing accommodation, vacancies at Barrow. which provided us with as much learning from risk to life incidents in the local community, With the MDP now deployed at BAES Barrow, experience as possible. this has ensured that every site within the United Kingdom has armed protection of the A visit to Rolls Royce Raynesway further Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD). The assisted in developing best practice, and commercial site of BAES employs 8-10,000 we collaborated with the BAES planning people and the site itself is effectively built department to maximise the floor space around the town centre of Barrow, with available. A gymnasium will be installed and residential housing and local amenities, the permanent accommodation work which is including supermarkets, retail outlets and underway, is due to be handed over to us in late restaurants, located nearby. spring 2020. POLICING NEEDS ANALYSIS STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

Prior to our arrival on site, a Policing Needs We facilitated a stakeholder meeting at MDP HQ Analysis was written by Ch Insp Phil Lucy, which was attended by various departments, which provided us with key milestones, from including representatives from Firearms, a resourcing perspective, on what had to be Procurement, Finance, CIS, OCC, MDP achieved over a two-year period for us to deliver Operations and the Roster Management Cell. Full Operational Capability (FOC) by March The rationale for the meeting was to ensure 2021. these departments were fully aware of our role and function at Barrow and what we required Any MDP officers interested in joining A stepped complement increase will now from them to deliver operational capability. Barrow should contact the Complement continue to take place until FOC is delivered. Implementation Team: Insp Ewan Muir or Sgt 10 TT Spring 2020 Michael Finlinson. DIVERSITY ...IT’S ABOUT ALL OF US LGBT+ Histo ry MMonthonth 2020 In keeping with the ‘poetry, prose and plays’ theme for this year’s LGBT+ History Month, members of ...to thine own self be true the MDP LGBT+ Network shared a literary quote Liz, Authorised Firearms Officer knew me and knew that I was gay. that is meaningful to them, reflecting on their own (AFO) at AWE, who recently joined Joining a new organisation was thoughts and experiences with the MDP. the MDP as a new entrant from therefore a little daunting for me at another force the time, but I have felt completely welcomed and am thoroughly allum, Tactical Firearms Unit Dynamic Search training. Having enjoying my new role with the MDP. C(TFU), and Chair of the Force only recently come out to my family, I’m now looking forward to helping LGBT+ Network I decided at that point to start afresh further develop the work of the and my colleagues on the TFU MDP LGBT+ Network, to continue “For me this poem is about risk course were the first in work to find to foster a supportive workplace and trust, which is something that out about my sexuality. I was a bit where we can speak openly with I, like many others, can relate to in apprehensive but, I had absolutely one another.” terms of my own experiences of nothing to worry about, the support coming out. I was given by the course directors Two roads diverged and my colleagues was second to in a yellow wood, Come to the edge. none and they have made it so easy And sorry I could not We might fall. for me to be my true self inside and outside work. travel both Come to the edge. And be one traveller, It’s too high! “My experiences of coming out in the workplace and at home have been so long I stood… COME TO THE EDGE! positive and, since taking up post as And they came, the MDP LGBT+ Network Chair last “I’ve always liked this poem which Two roads diverged and he pushed, year, I’m now keen to use my own story to help support others.” to me is about taking the right path in a wood, and I – And they flew. for you, even if it might not be the I took the one less Come to the Edge, Christopher Logue easiest path to take at first. I think many people can relate to that – be it travelled by. “Just over a year after I joined personally or professionally. And that has made the MDP and moved to Berkshire All the difference. to work at the Atomic Weapons “When I joined the MDP I had been Establishment (AWE), I transferred in my previous role in a Home Office The Road Not Taken, Robert Frost to the TFU and began my Initial Force for 12 years, where everyone

13 12 TT Spring 2020 LGBT+ HISTORY MONTH CONT’D>> DIVERSITY ...IT’S ABOUT ALL OF US

Alex, Constable at Menwith Hill

“When I started my training with the Flying the flags for MDP in Essex and then moved to Yorkshire with my wife, I didn’t know MDP and Naval Base anybody but, within a short space personnel, of time my new colleagues have Dale, Senior Police Officer at DM Diversity... at HMNB become my friends and at work I feel Crombie and MOD Caledonia and MDP Clyde, marked comfortable to be myself. This is so representative on the Scottish LGBTI Transgender important to me, as for years I wore Police Association Day of a mask, keeping my true self hidden, Remembrance and I eventually reached a turning back in Dale reflected on his role as an LGBT+ Ally point in my life where I had to come November. in the MDP and focused on ‘What have we out and be me. learned?’ which was the Scottish LGBT+ We flew our purple flag at MDP HQ for International History Month theme for 2020. “As a new member of the MDP Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December. LGBT+ Network, I’m now looking “My son Mark came out when he was Supt Sandy Stewart, Senior Police Officer at HMNB Clyde, forward to making more new friends joined colleagues from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines in 18 years old and at home, at university and using my own experiences to celebrating 20 years since the ban was lifted on lesbian, gay and in the workplace, he has always felt help support others.” and bisexual people serving in the armed forces. supported and has experienced no issues or bias because of his sexuality. Finally, to mark LGBT+ History There are no strangers Month we raised “As an LGBT+ Ally in the MDP, I’m proud to here; only friends you our Rainbow Flag be part of a support structure which aims haven’t yet met. at MDP HQ, which to ensure that those who identify as LGBT+ stayed aloft despite in our workforce and the communities we the stormy weather serve, have the same inclusive experience throughout February! as my son. ...and other Diversity celebrations “Since joining the MDP 29 years ago, I’ve seen a dramatic and positive change in In February, officers and staff wore something purple for #PurpleFriday, which is named after the purple stripe from the Rainbow Flag representing ‘spirit’, and we struck the views and attitudes towards LGBT+ people #EachForEqual pose for International Women’s Day on 8 March. and, across policing, it’s now recognised that we should be representative of the communities we serve and that people perform better when they can be themselves.

“We’ve come along way but, there’s still more to do…”

If you’re a member of the MDP – uniformed or non-uniformed – and would like to join or learn more about the MDP LGBT+ Network, or speak to members in confidence, you can make contact via the network’s group mailbox: MDP-LGBT- [email protected] 15 SPORT ROUND-UP WORLD INDOOR ROWING CHAMPION ongratulations to Operational Support CUnit Sergeant, Simon Amery, who won silver at the Paris FORCE GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP 2020 World Indoor Rowing CELEBRATES 30 YEARS MDP SPORTS Championships in February. The international event was he Force Golf Championship home (lost).” held at the Stade de la Tcelebrated its 30th anniversary Pierre Coubertain in Paris in August last year at the Cadrona The winner of the 2019 and attended by athletes Golf Club, in Scotland, attracting a championship was newcomner from 51 countries. Simon field of 36 officers. PC Mark Anderson from Glen competed in the men’s age Douglas, who was playing in the STARSSTARS To commemorate the special competition for the first time. 50-54 light weight (below Copyright: GDFPR Powerlifting 75kg) category and won occasion a limited-edition ball his silver medal in the 2000 marker was presented to all The handicap champion was PC metre event. players and in true Masters Golf John Colvan (RNAD Coulport), CLARE POWERS HER WAY TO TOP tradition, it was agreed to have also a first-time player, whilst Bob 2000 metres is the distance the inaugural shot of the 30th Bossam, who recently retired oulport-based PC Claire Stott-Barrett championships, for which she travelled to rowed by athletes on the championship played by Mr Wullie from Donnington, won the Retired has been powering her way to the top Halle, Germany in October. water and is the main Beck. Officers’ ophytr and Cas one of the UK’s best powerlifters. The Pausing only to retain her title at the PSUK competition distance Sergeant Ross Watt, from self-funded athlete told Talk Through: championships in Glasgow that same for indoor and outdoor Wullie Beck, a retired MOD civilian Garlogie was presented the Alf “All the competitions I have entered are in month, Claire joined Team GBR at the World events. The events are employee, has attended all the Hitchcock Quaich. the unequipped full power category, each event, finishing second in the open, first in completed on the Concept MDP championships over the past involving three lifts – back squat, bench the Masters and helping the national team 2 rowing machine which is 30 years. His role has always been Said Stuart: “It was a pleasure to press and deadlift. to finish second to hosts Germany in the standard gym kit all over to introduce the players on to the welcome Chair of the MDP Sports Claire’s track record over the past 17 team event. the world. Simon said “It is first tee and collate all the scores. Association, ACC Andrea Bishop, months in her chosen sport has been an instrument of torture at to the prizegiving presentation. It Said Claire: “I’m a self-funded athlete, very impressive, winning her inaugural times!” After his introduction, Wullie hit was a fitting end to what had been so I’m extremely grateful to have had the power lifting competition at the Police the drive of the day, straight down a memorable occasion. support of the Ministry Of Defence Police Service UK (PSUK) event in Glasgow in Here is Simon (left) pictured the middle. “Not bad for a young Sports Association, which has assisted with October 2018, before finishing second at the medal cermony with octogenarian” said Chief Insp “Thanks to those who attended the entry costs of the competitions. in the British Drug Free Powerlifting the victor, from Germany, Stuart Wilson, Treasurer for the and the continued support of all Association’s (BDFPA) Scottish Open in “I’m proud that when I compete, I’m not and bronze medal winner. MDP Golf Society. our members - we are looking Edinburgh two months later. only representing myself, but I’m also forward to the next 30 years!” Stuart described the Cadrona In April last year Claire took part in the representing my Station, my Force, the course as a “great test of golf, Details of the next Force Golf World Drug Free Powerlifting Federation, Helensburgh area where I live and work, the rough was unforgiving and Championship will be annouced in (WDFPF) European Champs in Suffolk ‘The Journey’, where I train and have the over the two rounds collectively, due course. and won her category. She followed this support of all the staff and clients, most 146 golf balls were given a new in July by winning the BDFPA British recently at the World Championships, Championships in Edinburgh, which representing Scotland and the UK.” meant that she qualified for the world NEXT: MARATHON RUNNER>>

16 TT Spring 2020 17 SPORT ROUND-UP Running in Rwanda C James Lodge, from the Tactical “Compassion have missions Firearms Unit, is no stranger in various parts of the world where they to extreme physical challenges are changing the lives of thousands of after he participated in an children living in extreme conditions. Extreme Character Challenge (XCC) Currently Compassion have raised over Pback in October 2017. This is a 72-hour £441,000 and have 844 sponsors from endurance event, designed to push challenges like this one in Rwanda. participants beyond their physical and mental comfort zones. “Compassion’s main aim is to findpeople to sponsor a child which enables them He was one of 100 men in the all-male to support the next family in desperate challenge, who were dropped off at need. My wife Laura and I sponsor three Heathrow airport with a back pack and children through Compassion. Erika aged bare essentials, and flown to Scotland, 8 who lives in Tanzania, Steven Caleb where they were put into teams. Each aged 4 who lives in Honduras and Amina team then made their way to Lock Tay, aged 8 who lives in Rwanda. in the central Highlands. No mobile phones were permitted for the duration “For the past three years I have cycled of the challenge and the men were shut for Children with Cancer UK and always off from the outside world, living in small look for further challenges where I can tents with rationed food supplies. help make a difference. Knowing the Said James: “Whilst I knew about poverty, locals throughout the course was incredible, impact that 4Muk and Compassion are nothing could have prepared me for what I and having random children running alongside The organisers, 4Muk, were linked in having on children’s lives, I just couldn’t would see. It was extremely difficult having to really helped remind me why I was doing it. with Compassion UK, a charity that resist the challenge and signed up for witness children as young as three, dragging stands up for children living in extreme the next available Muskathon which drums filled with water that would make you or “During my visit to Rwanda I was able to meet poverty. James told Talk Through: “At happened to be Rwanda 2019. I could I really ill, and living in mud huts the size of an eight-year-old Amina, one of the children my the end of my XCC challenge I received a have opted for the cycle ride but chose average bathroom. wife and I sponsor, along with her parents. feedback form and one of the questions to go out of my comfort zone and run my They live just outside Kabgayi. On one of the asked if I would participate in what’s first marathon! “However, it was also extremely comforting to days we spent there, we organised a sports called a Muskathlon - a play on words, see the huge impact Compassion was having day for the children which they absolutely we are the 4th Musketeer taking on “Whilst I was trying my best to keep to on the lives of all the children enrolled on the loved. Amina who had never seen a Frisbee a marathon. a strict training plan, my wife worked project. I have never felt more welcome in a took no time to master the technique. tirelessly finding ways to raise money country that has had to go through such hell “The options were either a half or full and find sponsors.” and to be told how grateful they are for people “Meeting Amina’s parents in their family home Marathon, 120km bike ride or a 40 mile like myself to stand by their side, was amazing was a moment I will forever treasure - to see walk to be completed in 9 hrs. When Together with 40 others, James flew to hear. the impact my sponsorship is having on Amina submitting my feedback form I registered to Rwanda’s capital Kilgali, spending a was just incredible”. my interest and thought no more of it. week visiting Compassion projects and “The marathon began at 0600 in Kabgayi, A few months later I received an email meeting the children and their families. which is 6,000 ft above sea level. It was all off road and extremely hilly. Whilst really tough asking if I would still like to participate Find out more: i compassionuk.org abroad in a Muskathlon to which I and very hot towards the end, I was actually replied yes. the first to complete the Marathon which I did @compassionuk in 5 hours 20 minutes. The support from the @compassionuk 18 TT Spring 2020 19 OPERATION CLOCKFACE II An officer’s tale

C David Dufton is a marine officer “There is a lot of work that goes on ‘behind the “On the big day when HMS Prince of Wales with the Marine Unit at HMNB scenes’ when planning an operation such as… squeezed out of its dockyard for the first The Force Protection Clyde. David volunteered to be part time – there was only one metre of clearance provided by the MDP of Operation Clockface and was ■ Finding volunteers happy to be away either side of the carrier as it passed through involved from the very beginning, starting from home for long periods and who were the opening at the basin – we had RHIBs and is integral to the Pwith the escort of HMS Queen Elizabeth from extremely flexible. launches maintaining a clear passage, both for Rosyth to her new home in Portsmouth. navigational safety and to deter any threat to the security of this strategic ■ Seeking berthing and vessel support from carrier. An MDP adviser was also positioned on national asset. It is as Here, David reflects on the maiden voyage of Port Edgar Marina (former HMS Lochinvar) the carrier’s bridge, working alongside the ship’s sister ship – HMS Prince of Wales… - We were very grateful for everything they Force Protection Officer, they helped coordinate fundamental inshore as did for us along with the HM Coastguard at the layered protection as well as be on hand to the protective escort “I volunteered for Operation Clockface right Port Edgar (use of facilities, fuel etc.). advise the Commanding Officer and respond to from the start as I wanted to be part of this any emergent threats. provided by warships historic event and be able to say I played my ■ Arranging accommodation for all officers small part in the delivery of the nation’s new involved, as well as vehicles for those on “Once at sea, the HMS Prince of Wales first offshore. I am indebted aircraft carriers. detached duty. port-of-call was Cromarty Firth to restock fuel to the MDP Marine Units and supplies at Invergordon. Whenever the “MDP Marine Units provided Force ■ Transporting RHIBS by road between carrier was at anchor here or in the Moray Firth for the professionalism Protection for three key milestones of HMS HMNB Clyde and Port Edgar and arranging the MDP were required to provide security Prince of Wales’ entry into service: the initial for them to be launched onto the Forth. including 24/7 cordon whilst it was alongside and flexibility they have departure from the building yard in Rosyth; the highland port. the subsequent period at anchor in the Firth ■ Acquiring assistance from civilian marinas shown throughout. of Forth; and the historic passage under the up and down country. Captain Darren Houston Forth bridges for the carrier’s sea trials in the ■ Picture: Captain Darren Houston, Royal Navy, Commanding Officer of HMS Prince of Wales and North Sea, which attracted significant public Staffing and up-keeping launches whilst Inspector Pat McNaught interest. in situ, often for long periods during the operation this included organising fuel, “ The operation began with intense planning repairs and maintenance with contractors which required joined up working with Police away from base station. Scotland, the Royal Navy, HM Coastguard local teams, the RNLI and civilian contractors. This Force has a long established and well-deserved reputation for rising to a challenge and the way it responded to this particular task was a fine example of that ‘can do’ attitude. I would like to place on record my grateful thanks and admiration for all those involved in executing this operation with such professionalism and expertise.Yet again you made everyone in the Force feel Proud To Be MDP. Chief Constable Andy Adams OP CLOCKFACE CONT’D>>

20 TT Spring 2020 21 “The demands placed on the MDP to provide flexibility, good humour and dedication to continuous waterborne Force Protection of an getting the job done - representing the MDP aircraft carrier are significant and were tested to well throughout. We worked in ever changing ...and keeping HMS Prince of Wales the limit by regular late-notice changes to the conditions, whether that was short notice ship’s programme, dictated by the progress of programme changes or indeed the weather its sea trials and weather conditions. itself! safe on the Mersey he Royal Navy aircraft carrier HMS “A particularly challenging phase of the “We lived for weeks out of suitcases, travelling Prince of Wales visited Liverpool in operation were preparations for the carrier’s first to different areas of the country to support the February to cement its close ties with entry to Portsmouth, which involved moving carriers. This included staying in hotels, onboard the city where parts of the ship were MDP launches from Inverness to the Naval Base the Police launches, in Pods at HMS Caledonia, built. This was a week-long visit giving the local via the North Sea. Unlike the escort of sister and student halls in Edinburgh, as well as Tcommunity the opportunity to step on board carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, we were unable spending days at sea in rough weather, all the – the first time one of the new carriers had to use the Caledonian Canal because it was time keeping our spirits high and determined to officially been open to visitors. shut for maintenance. do a good job. Following a request from the Royal Navy “Despite very rough and turbulent conditions, “I was proud to represent our Force and have Maritime Operations Centre, Northwood, MDP and the need to stop at many ports on the way the opportunity to work alongside our MOD were asked to provide Force Protection on down, including South Shields, Ramsgate, colleagues and other marine partners, as well behalf of the Carrier, in a joint operation with Lowestoft, Grimsby, and travelling through the as engage with members of the public who we Merseyside Police, named Operation Heartland. Thames Estuary, and Dover Straits (the busiest often encountered on our travels. shipping lanes in the world!) we successfully got The MDP played a crucial role in this security the launches to HMNB Portsmouth…The only “All our marine units are rightly proud of the challenge of considerable scale and complexity. part of the UK coastline not visited during the contribution we made, often above and beyond, As with previous operations involving the HMS Prince whole operation was the north of Scotland, as in facilitating a smooth transition for carriers, Operation Heartland required significant Wales vessels came back from Portsmouth through from building site to making her debut planning and logistical considerations. the Irish Sea! in Portsmouth and joining sister carrier Queen Elizabeth. We all look forward to supporting the Not only were MDP RHIBS and launches “All those involved in the operation displayed carriers throughout their operational life.” required to escort HMS Prince of Wales from the Irish Sea along the River Mersey and ensure she Throughout all the phases of Operation Clockface involving the safely anchored at the Liverpool Cruise Terminal, but MDP also provided 24/7 security, both on Queen Elizabeth and the Prince of Wales Carriers all officers omfr land and water, for the duration of her stay. the three Marine Units, the OSU and other stations who responded often at short notice have displayed dedication, flexibility and the This was a huge logistical operation involving officers omfr all three MDP Marine Units as well utmost professionalism throughout. I would also like to thank the as officers omfr the Operational Support Unit Operational Support Departments, Duties Offices, Boats Support and Central Support Group. With the Carrier and CT SECCO officers who assisted throughout every phase of being docked in a non-naval port and being open to the public, MDP supported Merseyside the operation. Our protection of the carriers has not gone unnoticed Police with implementing a robust security as can be seen from the comments from the commanding officer, operation, protecting both the ship and its which highlight how we in the MOD Police are held in such high visitors. regard. We have forged excellent relationships with personnel from Supt Sandy Stewart who was fortunate to the Carrier, Police Scotland and staff at Rosyth and Invergordon be involved in the event said: “It has been an and we also thank them for the assistance they provided to the honour and privilege for MDP to be a part of this historical and memorable occasion. Force. I would also like to thank Chief Insp John Brizzolara (now Another great opportunity to work with naval retired) and Chief Insp John Coffield (seconded to the GDP in officers and the security team on board Gibraltar) who were involved with Op Clockface during their time HMS Prince of Wales, as well as forge new relationships with policing colleagues from with the CMU. Chief Inspector Garry Richardson Merseyside, and engage with the Liverpool community, who turned out in their tens of 22 TT Spring 2020 thousands to see the Carrier.” 23 CRIME COMMAND SUCCESS

JAIL SENTENCE FOR THEFT OF MOD WEAPONS n 26 November, Peter Laidler ...no matter who you are or what was sentenced to a total of 36 months in jail for various your role is, if you are involved in offences elatingr to the theft any related criminality against the of weapons from the Infantry and Small Ministry of Defence you will be OArms School Corps weapons collection in Warminster where he had been employed identified and we will persevere Written by:

as a weapons technician until 2012. in ensuring that you are brought ROA Committee 2019 Geoff Heal to justice...Supt Raffaele D’Orsi This was the culmination of a detailed

investigation by officers from the Picture: The case was discovered through the Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) Crime continual pro-active work of the MDP Crime Command. Laidler was a former Thames Command to combat the risks posed by Valley Police officer where he had been the theft of MOD owned firearms. When any a firearms licensing officer until his suspected theft of firearms or ammunition retirement in 1998. He was also a Reserve MDP RETIRED OFFICERS’ is reported, Crime Command will prioritise Army officer in the Combined Cadet Force pursuing the recovery of those items and the Monday - as well as the AGM it also includes a at local schools. prosecution of those involved. Gala Dinner on the Saturday evening. This year we are meeting in the lovely spa town of Harrogate, Laidler’s co-defendant was Roger Smith, ASSOCIATION Deputy Head of MOD Police Crime between 9 and 12 October. We are currently a serving MDP officer up until the time Command, Detective Superintendent t is with great pleasure that as the Chair of finalising the details to ensure that it will be of the trial. He had admitted receiving Raffaele D’Orsi commented: “The sentencing the MDP Retired Officers’ Association (ROA), another memorable weekend. We have also begun weapons from his friend Laidler for a of Mr Laidler and previously of ex PC I have been given the opportunity to write a planning the AGM/Reunion for 2021. number of years. Talk Through Smith is the culmination of a tenacious and small piece in this issue of . painstaking investigation by officers from Members of the association are entitled to specific Smith was found guilty of handling IThe ROA was formed in 1989, by the then Chief MDP Crime Command. benefits which we have negotiated, including a stolen SA80 Cadet rifle and was Constable, Jack Aspinall QPM FCMI, when an discounts with holiday and insurance companies. sentenced to a Community Order for 12 “The successful outcome to this case is inaugural meeting was held at the MDP Training However, the greatest benefit members can months, with a requirement to complete testament to the investigating officers’ School at Medmenham. Initially 300 ex-officers receive from being part of the ROA is the 200 hours of unpaid work. At a police professionalism, and the commitment of the joined and a committee was formed under the opportunity to keep up with current events in the misconduct hearing following his Crown Prosecution Service, sending out a Chairmanship of Arthur Aitchison. Since then Force and stay in touch with ex colleagues. conviction he was dismissed as if he had clear message to firearms enabled criminals. the ROA has grown in strength and with the still been a serving officer. This being that, no matter who you are or full support of the MDP Chief Constable and The ROA is for all ex-MDP officers - we always what your role is, if you are involved in any Defence Police Federation (DPF) we continue look forward to welcoming new members and related criminality against the Ministry of to grow. Currently we have over 450 active meeting them at their first AGM/Reunion. Defence you will be identified and we will members. persevere in ensuring that you are brought to More information about the ROA including full justice. The committee meets every quarter and there membership details can be found on the DPF is an Annual General Meeting (AGM)/Reunion website: http://www.dpf.org.uk/about-dpf/ “In this case two former police officers, one normally the second weekend in October. Last retired-officers-association. Serving officers, serving at the time of offending, thought they year we met in Edinburgh. There is an average approaching retirement, can also make enquiries knew better but still behaved criminally. This attendance of between 70 and 80 members but via the MDP Liaison Officer, Superintendent will not be tolerated by the MOD.” we would like to expand on this. The weekend Sandy Stewart (SPO Clyde Group) on 01436 starts on a Friday with an informal meet and 674321 ext 4073, mobile 07970 741403, or greet and it concludes on the following email: [email protected] 24 TT Spring 2020 25 Working with

CNC New recruits join ranks Since the last issue of Talk Through, he Executive teams of the MDP and Civil Nuclear two new intakes of probationer Constabulary (CNC) continue to meet regularly Constables have joined MDP, after to discuss working together closely on common graduating from the Operational issues and themes. Capability Centre at the end of their basic training. TCurrently the focus remains on recruitment and retention as both organisations are actively recruiting. MDP and In December the Band of the Scots CNC aim to complement each other in a cohesive Guards provided the musical support joint effort to deliver operational effectiveness, and a for the passing out of Course 03 of 2019 Memorandum of Understanding is therefore being worked and there was also a demonstration by on, to set out shared goals and a working relationship the MDP Dog Unit, featuring PD Thom across both organisations. and Student PDs Roscoe and Demmy with their handlers. As part of this work information sharing and exchange mechanisms will be put in place to assist in maintaining In February, guest of honour for progress against individual strategies and operational the passing out of Course 04 of 2019 missions. was Vice Chief of the Defence Staff, In memory of Michael Admiral Timothy Fraser CB, and among The focus will initially be on: the officers graduating was PC Danny Brockett, watched by his proud father, ■ Meeting the recruitment and retention challenges of Chief Insp Jonathan Brockett, MDP’s both organisations Chief Firearms Instructor. he tragic death on duty, in July 1998, Liesl and their two sons Matthew and Adam, as of MDP Constable Michael Brown well as Liesl’s parents Elsie and Jim Dickie. ■ Optimising the use of resources across the was recalled at a cermony to mark the partnership to meet workforce challenges restoration of a memorial cairn which stands in his memory in the Naval Base at ■ Making the transition of armed officers more flexible TClyde. across our organisations

Michael, a 34-year-old constable and father ■ Developing a joint workforce plan to aid decision of two, was tragically killed on duty on 28 July making and understanding of joint resourcing 1998 whilst carrying out a maritime escort requirements duty with the Clyde Marine Unit. The incident occurred off Toward Point on the River Clyde, Both forces are predominantly focused on firearms duties, The charity Aquarius, which helps where Michael fell overboard from an inflatable with high fitness and training levels linked directly to the individuals and families overcome the boat, whilst providing protective security for the maintenance of firearms licences. Whilst there are a small harm caused by addiction to drugs, movement of a submarine. number of roles that can be undertaken by individuals alcohol and gambling, received £1,000 Following its professional restoration last year, who are no longer able to carry weapons, these are from the students who graduated in Two years after this tragic incident, a cairn was the cairn was re-dedicated at a memorial limited in both forces. Work is therefore taking place to December. erected by Defence Estates with contributions ceremony attended by Michael’s family, meet this challenge and look at options that can help from the Defence Police Federation, Michael’s personnel from the Base, ACC Andrea Bishop benefit both organisations. Whilst Macmillan Cancer, MND Scotland colleagues, friends and many others affected and other MDP Clyde colleagues, led by Senior and the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust by his death. It was unveiled by Michael’s wife, Police Officer Superintendent Sandy Stewart. This is the first in a series of joint communications - shared £1788.87, raised via various the MDP and CNC are committed to keeping all staff fund-raising activities by the students informed on progress and the Executive teams look from February’s graduation. 26 TT Spring 2020 forward to sharing more information in due course. 27 My Donation Story PC Neil Hopkins is a dog handler at HMNB Clyde. Here he tells Talk Through about his experiences of being a donor for the Anthony Nolan Trust.

uesday 18 December 2018 was consecutive days of a substance named After six hours hooked up to the machine, suitable and then for the donation 15 days the first time I donated stem G-CSF (Granulocyte-Colony Stimulating and endless amounts of tea and biscuits later. cells to a cancer patient to help Factor). These injections help build the donation was complete. The only side save their life. I had been on up a secondary immune system prior effect I experienced was tiredness. “After donation the Trust can help arrange the Anthony Nolan donor register for to donating. They were administered communication anonymously between both Tapproximately eighteen months prior at home by a nurse. The day after “Spending time at the Christie Hospital, donor and recipient. After two years, if both to being notified that I had come up the fourth injection I travelled to the seeing the effects cancer has first hand, want to and the recipient’s medical team as a match for a patient fighting blood specialist cancer hospital, The Christie, has changed my outlook on life completely. allows it, direct contact can be made, and cancer. in Manchester. Being able to give a stranger a second we are allowed to meet provided contact, is chance at life is an unbelievable feeling, one initiated by the recipient. “After much deliberation, I’ve decided “There are two ways used to extract I find hard to describe. However, it does fill to share my story and experiences of bone marrow. The first is to be hooked me with a sense of pride. “I’ve been supported by Anthony Nolan stem cell donation, both to promote the up to the donation machine with one throughout both donations and keep regular Anthony Nolan Trust and to persuade as needle in each arm – one to withdraw “In November 2019 I was contacted again contact with their aftercare team. I’d like to many people as possible to sign up to the blood and cells, prior to it being by the Anthony Nolan Trust, asking if I place on record my thanks for the amazing their donor register and, hopefully, save passed through the machine, and the would be willing to donate for the same work they do, along with all the consultants more lives from blood cancer. other to return your blood back to you recipient. This time for Lymphocytes. Unlike and nurses at The Christie. Without this after the machine has taken the cells. the first time, there was no requirement for many more lives would be lost to cancer. “When people hear about bone marrow daily injections. Lymphocytes are naturally They truly are an exceptional bunch of donation, the first question they ask is “The other way is under general occurring cells in the blood and regenerate people. “isn’t that painful?” the short answer anaesthetic, with the bone marrow themselves over time. They boost the being: “No, definitely not!” I’ve donated being taken directly from your pelvis, recipient’s immune system and help him/her twice for the same recipient, once although I must add only ten per cent of to continue fighting the disease. for bone marrow stem cells and the donations are done this way. The other If you’ve been inspired by Neil’s story and second time for lymphocytes, or more 90 per cent of donations are made as “Without hesitation I agreed, and want to find out more about the Anthony commonly known as white blood cells. an out-patient, using the method as I arrangements were put in place to allow Nolan Trust visit: www.anthonynolan.org describe. Each donation is different and me to travel to the Christie Hospital again. Join their donor register today and save “My first donation experience consisted dependent on the recipient’s needs. Firstly, for a medical to check I was still lives like Neil. of one injection per day for four

28 TT Spring 2020 29 AWARD WINNING PERFORMANCES ...And Chris donates D-Day75 support his stem cells DP St Fergus officer PC Chris you can go ahead with the harvesting Force given ONUS Bain has been on the DKMS of your stem cells. Again, this is a fairly recognised stem cell donation register for a straightforward process. Platinum Award number of years, but it was only ecognition for the MDP involvement cut across Mlast year that he got the call to say he was “Five days prior to donation you are given role played by MDP the Public Military Event and a match for a person suffering with blood medication to promote stem cell growth. officers involved the MDP customer base in cancer...As a result Chris recently donated On the day of donation, blood is taken from in policing Op the Portsmouth area, both his stem cells. one arm, passed through a machine and Viscount – the multi-agency on land and sea. then put back into the other arm – very Roperation to mark the 75th He told Talk Through: “Since going similar to blood donation. On the very odd anniversary of D-Day in The citation read: ‘Awarded through the donation process, I have tried occasion bone marrow will be taken but this June last year – has come to the Ministry of Defence to encourage as many people as I can to is not too common. from the Chief Constable Police, in recognition of join the stem cell register. A number of of Hampshire Police, Olivia their contribution to the colleagues at my own station have signed “Last year 228,038 people registered Pinkney. planning and delivery of the up already, which means a great deal. through DKMS and there were 276 largest policing operation in donations. I am trying to promote the PC Mel Burns collected the 2019 On behalf of the Force, Hampshire Constabulary’s “The process itself is fairly easy. If you are organisation as best I can and will soon be Safe Places Platinum ONUS Ch Supt Dave Pawley and history. aged between 17 and 55, you can register taking on the role as DKMS North Scotland Award at Belfast City Hall on Ch Insp Phil Lucy accepted with DKMS who will then send out a mouth hub representative. 19 November 2019, presented a Certificate of Recognition Their involvement helped swab kit. Three swabs later and you pop by ONUS chair Jenny Patton, from the Hampshire Chief, to ensure a safe and the package back to DKMS and that is you Chris said that he is continuing his acknowledging the excellent for the MDP support secure event took place on the register, for the possibility of being a relationship with DKMS and will soon be the contribution provided by MDP provided to Op Viscount. to honour our veterans match for someone anywhere in the world North Scotland hub representative, having officers to victims of Domestic and commemorate D-Day who is suffering from blood cancer. arranged two donor drives in the north, one Abuse. A total of 61 awards 75. This included a visit to at the North East College, Fraserburgh and were presented, many of Portsmouth from the Queen, “If found to be a match, further medical the second at Moray College, Elgin. them to partner agencies the President of the United The award has been checks are carried out and if all is well i www.dkms.org.uk and law enforcement States of America and a given in recognition of organisations, recognising host of other heads of state continued enhanced the services delivered and from around the world.’ DKMS stands for the achievements made. service delivery through ‘DeutscheKnochenMarkSpenderdatei’ or ‘German Bone Marrow Donor File’ based in Tϋbingen, collaborative working, Germany. The international non-profit organisation which is necessary to is dedicated to fighting blood cancer and blood safeguard victims and disorders. It was founded in 1991 by Dr Peter Harf, in honour of his wife, Mechtild who sadly lost her provide the help and battle with blood cancer following the family’s support to manage all unsuccessful search to find a lifesaving matching potential risks and keep blood stem cell donor. people safe. DKMS now have more than 8 million potential Senior Police Officer, Sgt Dale donors registered and have given more than 69,000 Lucas second chances of life to people diagnosed with blood cancer. But their worldwide search for new donors must continue as many people are still not 31 able to find the matching donor they need. he Police Scotland Youth Volunteers In support of Police Scotland’s priority Written by: (PSYV) are groups of up to 24 young to reduce crimes of violence, 75 Youth PC Tracy Ross people from across Scotland who, Volunteers have also been trained in supported by adult volunteers “No Knives Better Lives” Peer Education Tand led by a police constable, volunteer products. They are very active, presenting at community and national events all over the key messages to their peers throughout Scotland. Scotland and there are plans for PSYV to develop their peer education skills further by The programme aims to strengthen offering inputs to community groups on two the relationship between the police and further subjects, including Cyber Crime and young people, breaking down barriers Internet Safety. and promoting positive role models. It is open to all young people aged from 13 to In August 2019, Helensburgh PSYV 18 years, allowing those people to get an assisted at a Stand Up to Cancer event insight into policing in Scotland and inspire (SU2C) in Helensburgh. By chance, the local individuals to participate positively within Member of Parliament, Brendan O’Hara, their communities. was also in attendance and visited the PSYV stall. He was so impressed with their work, Each PSYV group is coordinated by a police he invited them to London to visit him at the officer (PC Stephen Carr for Helensburgh) Houses of Parliament. who either have full time PSYV duties, or complete their PSYV duties alongside other In February the PSYV group travelled to duties, such as a community constable or London and met Brendan O’Hara, MP, at the school-based officer. Houses of Parliament where they received a tour of the House of Commons and the The coordinator is supported by a team of House of Lords, as well as the Voting Lobby. Adult Volunteers (AVs), who come from all walks of life and bring their own skills and The PSYV’s visit to London was hosted flare to each group. Helensburgh PSYV has by the MDP team at Whitehall, who with eight AVs – Fiona Henry is the Deputy Group the support of their Senior Police Officer, Volunteer (Civilian), PC Tracy Ross (MDP) is Chief Inspector Simon Munro, organised a the Senior Adult Volunteer, and there are six full itinerary for the group during their stay. other AVs who assist with youth training or This included visiting: the London Ambulance attendance at events. Service Hazardous Area Response Team (LAS HART) West; the Henry VIII wine PSYV numbers have risen steadily and they cellar, which is deep within the vaults of have volunteered at numerous local events, the Palace of Whitehall and not normally Scottish youth as well as assisting Police Scotland at many open to the general public; Downing Street; high profile events, including The Wicker Man Horse Guards, to meet the staff behind the Festival, T In The Park, The Solheim Cup, scenes, and the horses in their stables, as the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Scottish well as to visit the Duke of Wellington’s room, Air Show, and have twice provided a Guard where members of the royal family observe of Honour for Princess Anne and assisted proceedings during Her Majesty’s official - volunteers visit at local charity events, raising substantial Trooping the Colour - birthday celebrations; amounts of money. and the Horse Guards Museum.

Since May 2019, Helensburgh PSYV have During their visit to London the PSYV committed over 2,000 hours to the local group also had the opportunity to explore community. In addition, each year when a number of other tourist hot spots as well as Whitehall the clocks go back, PSYV deliver a national stumbling upon the ‘One Show’ being filmed ‘housebreaking’ campaign, which informs at the BBC studios! Thanks to the MDP at residents about how to keep their property Whitehall, this two-day trip was an incredible safe and secure during the darker nights. The experience for the PSYV, giving them the PSYV groups commit hundreds of volunteers chance to see things they may never get to to the annual campaign, giving up thousands see again. 32 TT Spring 2020 of hours of their own time. 33 and support for our Emergency Services. “For those who have taken their own lives, for those who have left their jobs, for those who are struggling on the frontline, and to anyone struggling with a mental health problem, I JAMIE’S dedicate my climb to you.” Since then, Jamie has been planning further expeditions, in support of the same cause, including the Confidential Blue Light Info Line from Mind, providing mental heath support for EVEREST Picture: Pray flags at Base Camp Team 999. Sadly, an all emergency services trip to Everest “I feel my summit attempt was doomed from the Base Camp planned for May this year has had start when a fault with my regulator on my tank to be postponed because of the COVID-19 let it vent a huge amount of oxygen in one go. global pandemic. CHALLENGE By the time the summit was in sight hours later with huge queues, I didn’t have enough to get Said Jamie: “I have decided to postpone bout this time last year, Portsmouth blood cells, shake off our coughs and colds, up there and back down safely, and after a short our ADVENTURE 999 Everest Base Camp Marine Unit’s PC Jamie Ironmonger allow blisters and minor injuries to heal, and discussion with my Sherpa, I wasn’t prepared Expedition until October (7- 25). Also, I’m busy was setting off on what turned out try to put on as much weight as we can to to take the risk. It was a horrendous decision to planning a National Event for 18 July called ‘999 to be an epic journey to conquer cope with the 35,000 calorie demand that make, but we turned around. in the Park’ in attempt to get as many people Mount Everest. His aim was to raise money summit night requires! out at the same time across the whole of the forA mental health charity Mind with its Blue “I turned around just in time to make it back to UK with several organised walks. For individuals Light Support line, whilst raising awareness “It is now only a matter of days, before I’ll Camp 3, before the weather window closed in. who can’t reach those locations, they can still of how stress, depression and Post Traumatic be putting on my boots and backpack, and The storm hit, with many climbers still up there, join in by just getting outdoors and sharing their Stress Disorder can affect anyone, and heading out of Base Camp for the last time. including three of my team. I went to sleep that photos with everyone on our Adventure 999 particularly those working in the emergency It’s all becoming very serious now, and I will night believing they were all dead or dying and Facebook group.” services. soon have my one and only chance to reach there was nothing I could do. This was in fact the summit of Mt. Everest.” the fate of many climbers that night. MIND Confidential Blue Light Info Line: Little did he know then what lay ahead. A gruelling climb to the summit 8848m above Days later, with the tragic events at the “In the early hours, I was to learn that the three 0300 303 5999 sea level, which fell just short when his summit behind him, Jamie posted: of them were ok and had managed to get down safely, although one was suffering with nasty oxygen supplies ran too low to continue “Very upsettingly and tragically, my Everest frostbite. However, the next day I was informed in safety. Extreme weather closing in with journey has come to an end. I have arrived that our friend and team mate Kevin had died on the summit in sight, leaving many climbers today safe and sound at Base Camp and I’m the mountain. He was a veteran mountaineer of stranded as they queued for their turn at the thankful to be alive. I had several sketchy many 8000m peaks and I looked up to him for top. Not all of them returned, including one of moments up there and it has made me realise guidance on this expedition. Jamie’s team-mates. a lot about what’s truly important in life. All these dramas were recorded by Jamie “The summit no longer held any importance to on his Facebook page ‘Mind Everest me after that and, at that point, I was done with Expedition’and here is just a flavour of some the mountain. So much death and risk taking... of his posts: Was it worth it!? I’m still trying to come to terms with it all and realising how lucky I am to be “Hi everyone. I’m with the 360 Team back down safely. recovering at the lower altitude of 4300m “I’m now just looking forward to coming home away from Base Camp. Living at extreme to see my wife Natalie, my family and my little altitude for well over a month has really dog. I’m disappointed I didn’t get to raise the taken its toll on our bodies. We now have the Picture: Jamie and his team Tri-Line flag on Everest, but I will continue my Picture: Queuing for the summit chance to recuperate, make some more red campaign to promote positive mental health

34 TT Spring 2020 35 Our people In it for the long haul...... and saying goodbye Congratulations to colleagues celebrating 20, 30 and 40 years’ service On 28 February MDP CC Andy Adams and colleagues said farewell to Supt MARK FOULGER Long Service and Good Conduct Medals have been on his last day of service, after 38 years with the awarded to a number of officers, including: Force. Mark began his career at RAF Stafford and PC William Linton has carried out various roles, including Head of PC Christopher Mills Professional Standards, during his career. PC Anthony Charles Pocock Coins commemorating 30 years’ service have been given to, amongst others: PC Michael Campbell PC James Allan Clark PC Willie Coalville PC James Elsby PC Eddie Grainger PC David Hughes PC Scott Jackman PC Wilson John Kelso PC Tracy Knopman In February we also bade farewell to PC Keith Massingham Inspector TIM REECE, based in our Ops PC Brian McCallion team at HQ, when he retired after more PC Paul McMillan than 36 years’ service with the MDP. Here PC Neil Sinclair he is with ACC Operations Dave Long. Ex-PS Anthony Clayton (Rtd) DS Peter Scrogie PS Alan Swanwick Insp Christopher Burt Insp Stephen Fraser Insp Stephen Hamilton Insp James McKenna Ch Insp Darrell Barber Well wishes were given to PC ALAN Ch Insp Iain Stackhouse CUTTER who retired after 35 years Ch Insp Paul Sturgess with the MDP. Alan was stationed at MOD Caledonia, and is pictured here Certificate for 40 years’ service: with the Senior Police Officer, PS Dale Muir, but he spent the majority of his Inspector ANDREW ‘PAUL’ CHALMERS, MDP career as a marine officer at HM from HM Naval Base Clyde, received Naval Base Clyde. a certificate for 40 years’ Meritorious Service with the MDP, from Chief Constable Andy Adams. Paul’s career has seen him in a range of policing roles in the We also said goodbye to PC BOB UK and overseas – including developing ADAMS, from MOD Caledonia, upon UK Protester Removal Team (PRT) his retirement from the MDP after policy, leading search teams, carrying 29 years’ service. Here is Bob with out the role as Senior Police Officer at Inspector Paul Stringer. Vulcan and, more recently, working as Staff Officer to the Chief Constable. Congratulations Paul! OUR PEOPLE CONT’D>> 36 TT Spring 2020 // 037 Top job...... and Royal recognition Congratulations to officers fromMDP FIREARMS BRANCH (below), the QPM for DCC Gareth Wilson OPERATIONAL CAPABILITY CENTRE (OCC) and CRIME COMMAND upon Chiefs’ Council lead for receiving commendations from Chief Constable Andy Adams and ACC OD&C ollowing the award in the New Year Diversity and Inclusion. Andrea Bishop, for their outstanding performances. FHonours, of a Queen’s Police Medal “His legacy can be felt in (QPM) to Deputy Chief Constable Gareth every Force in which he has Wilson, CCMDP Andy Adams commented: served, and no more so “This is a tremendous honour for Gareth than in Suffolk Constabulary and recognises his valuable contribution to where he held the position policing spanning over 30 years. of Chief Constable between “Gareth joined Essex Police in 1989 and has 2016 and 2019 - serving the worked across four Home Office Forces: people of that county up until his retirement Essex, Kent, Norfolk and Suffolk. His varied last year. Gareth’s subsequent move to the career has seen him leading several high- MDP means that his policing knowledge and profile criminal investigations, working on experience will now be maintained and passed on wide scale collaboration projects, managing within the Defence Policing environment during significant operations and delivering the coming years. organisational change. He has conducted “We send the congratulations of all his colleagues work on the national stage both within the in the MDP as Gareth and his family, no doubt, crime portfolio and as the National Police celebrate this proud achievement.”

Well done to LAUREN, new Kennel Assistant on the Dog Unit at RNAD Prince Phillip commends ‘Coco’ Coulport, for completing her initial its creation, Not Just Another Brick In The training – welcome! DP Porton Down PC Paul ‘Coco’ Cocoran Wall has raised more than £80,000. Mhas been awarded a Prince Phillip Coco is no stranger to taking on unusal Commendation for his charity work for The challenges in the name of charity - last time Rifles Regimental rust,T ‘Care for Casualties’ he was at Hadrian’s Wall, he raised £5,000 by charity. Prince Phillip is Colonel-in-Chief of the carrying a kitchen sink over 84 miles and in Regiment and Coco received this award at a June 2018, he marched fifty volunteers over Congratulations to MDP Assistant ceremony at the Guildhall in London, where he fifty miles from Hereford to Shrewsbury on the Chief Constable ANDREA BISHOP also met members of the Royal family. 50th Anniversary of his Regiment, then raising whose permanent appointment as Coco is behind the project called ‘Not Just £51,000. our ACC Organisational Development Another Brick In The Wall’, a unique fundrasier & Crime (OD&C), has been The next Not Just Another Brick In The Wall which aims to raise awareness of Post confirmed. Andrea joined the MDP charity walk is currently due to take place Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It involves Well done CORSHAM DOG SECTION on secondment from Kent Police. from 16 to 19 September 2021, along the for receiving a team commendation from volunteer veterans carrying bricks in honour of Jurassic Coast. Follow Coco and his project ACC Ops Dave Long for demonstrating lost comrades - each brick is dedicated to a on Facebook to find out more:https://www. consistently high standards, recognised veteran who has lost their lives on operations, facebook.com/Not-just-Another-brick-in-the- during inspections. PC VIC HILLIER, or who have sadly taken their own life, as a wall-1816625288416082/ Kennel Manager, was also commended result of mental health issues. for his professionalism and dedication. Last year more than 200 ex-army servicemen and women carried their bricks for 45 miles, over three days, along Hadrian’s Wall. Coco, a veteran himself, originally set up the project to Well done Police Dog Instructors, support veteran PTSD sufferers, representing PCs JUDGE, WILLIAMS, the brick wall they face every day, but it MACPHERSON, TAYLOR and BELL, quickly expanded to support all veterans on passing their Narcotics Detection suffering after returning from overseas. Since Course. Big thanks also to Police 39 Scotland for delivering the training. Our people #TogetherWeveGotItCovered #AllInADaysWork MDP IN THE SOCIAL #PoliceFamily MEDIA #DiversityIsAboutAllOfUs #PoliceTraining

#ProudToBeMDP #JoinedUpWorking

#MarinePolicing #ProtectingThePublic

#KeepingDefenceSafe

#DefenceWellbeing #ForceWithADiffer 40 TT Spring 2020 ence 41 Copyright: eXXpedition

It has made me realise the severity of the situation – a clean-up of the ocean isn’t a solution, it’s too far gone. We need to focus on ways to stop plastic getting into the ocean

Kirsty’s leg was estimated to take nine days, “We were expecting to find very little plastic sailing 1200 nautical miles from Plymouth as the choppy conditions would force the across the Atlantic Ocean to Sa Miguel in plastic too low for us to sample. However, the Azores. After battling through storms that we were all shocked when our first sample caused damage to both the boat and sails, contained 88 pieces of micro-plastic. the voyage took nearly 13 days and covered a total 1617 nautical miles. “It has made me realise the severity of the situation – a clean-up of the ocean isn’t a solution, it’s too far gone. We need to focus on ways to stop plastic getting into the ocean at the source and start to refuse single use KIRSTY’S plastics completely, which is understandably easier said than done,” said Kirsty.

The world voyage and research is being funded by the crew of each leg and it was AROUND THE a challenge for Kirsty to fund...so she made Copyright: eXXpedition contact with the MDP Sports Association (MDPSA). Kirsty said: “I would like to take this pedition Kirsty who has been an MDP officer for three opportunity to thank the MDPSA for providing eXX years and has no previous sailing experience, me financial assistance and in particular Willie WORLD described the voyage as the most challenging Burns, who helped make it all possible. thing she has experienced. wo years, 30 voyages, 300 SV TravelEdge set sail from Sutton “Their contribution towards my kit for the women...MDP officer, Kirsty Young, Harbour in Plymouth on 8 October 2019 “It was the first time I have been on a boat voyage was invaluable, given the conditions was one of ten women chosen and is due to sail 38,000 nautical miles, so knew it was going to be a challenge,” she that I was faced with. I’d also like to say from over 10,000 applicants to set finishing back in London in 2021. said. “However, I definitely underestimated thank you to all my friends, family and sail on leg one of ‘eXXpedition Round the the enormity of the task and just how vast and colleagues who have supported me and put TWorld’ from Sutton Harbour in Plymouth unforgiving the Atlantic Ocean can be. up with the relentless preparations in the lead last October. up to the voyage.” The venture is an all-female sailing voyage “It was not just a physical challenge to sail and research mission that will see 300 the boat in the treacherous weather and Follow the #EXXPEDITION: women circumnavigating the world, storms we faced, but a huge mental one to conducting cutting edge research into stay optimistic and carry on whist it felt like exxpedition.com plastic pollution, whilst celebrating women the world was against us. Being adaptable in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering is a skill I’ve never fully appreciated until this @exxpedition Copyright: eXXpedition and Mathematics), exploration and sailing. voyage and it was certainly put to the test, as @exxpeditionCIC the ocean state changed so fast and often.

42 TT Spring 2020 43 #InThisTogther...

e ut Although we must all keep our distance to help stop the spread of #COVID19,th a smile it - isif importantyou see someone that, where witho w can, we do it wia smile give them yours :)

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