Police World Edition 4, 2013

Vol 58 No.4 2013

The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK www.ipa-uk.org

News from the World Police & Fire Games Turn to pages 4–8 and 16–17

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Editor Lee Hemmings e-mail: lee.hemmings@ipa-uk.org Deadline for article submission for edition 1, 2014 is 18 November, 2013. Dispatched January, 2014. Police World The magazine of the International Police Association, Section UK

Contents Vol 58 No.4 2013

Features 4-5 Working on Your Behalf

News from the World Police Fire & Games

Advertising Michele Rai tel: (+44) 0115 981 3638 e-mail: mail@ipa-uk.org General enquiries IPA, BSAC, Arthur Troop House, 1 Fox Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham. NG2 6AJ tel: (+44) 0115 981 3638 fax: (+44) 0115 981 3349 e-mail: mail@ipa-uk.org

6-8 Policja Placements

Two members report on a Police Exchange in Krakow, Poland 8 Defensive Tactics Weekend

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Keith Sinclare reports on a Defensive Tactics Group training weekend in Wales

9 Witamy w Cambridgeshire

Steve Bretherton speaks of the benefits of a professional exchange

10 A Magical Experience

Phil Gilver recalls the highlights from a Rochdale branch visit to Poland

Printed by Bishops Printers, Walton Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO6 1TR Membership In Section UK, the membership comprises serving and retired Police Officers, Special Constables and members of Police Staff employed by a Chief Constable or other appropriately designated Chief Officer of the Police Service. The Section has a unique mixture of police personnel who are still serving, retired, or in some instances, who have voluntarily resigned from the police service.* *For details of who can join Section UK, go to www.ipa-uk.org/Join-Us Joining the IPA costs just £35 and annual renewal is £28. Visit the website to learn about our promotional offers. To apply either visit www.ipa-uk.org or request an application form from the general enquiries team. A guide to Region numbers 1 - Scotland 2 - Northern Ireland 3 - Northern England 4 - Wales 5 - Midlands 6 - Central London 7 - South West England 8 - East Anglia 9 - North West London, Beds & Herts 10 - North East London & Essex 11 - South London & South East England

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11 Erste Konferenz in Deutschland statt

The Motorcycling Group held their AGM at Gimborn, Germany - Tracy Seavers tells the story

12 What a Star

Two members reveal how the IPA assisted with a birthday celebration 13 Treasure Hunt on Four Wheels Six teams from Cambridgeshire go in search of hidden treasure 14 Surprise Guests in Normandy The Camping and Caravan Group tell of a brush with royalty at D-day celebration A Middlesex member attends Section Estonia’s 20th Anniversary Celebration 16 World Police & Fire Games Vice President Mark Kernohan reports on the success of the games News 18 – 26 National News A round up of the news from Section UK 28 International News International diary dates and more Regulars 15 Estonian 20 Year Extravaganza

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29 – 30 Classifieds

Adverts, special offers and notices

31 Diary dates

Branch and regional events and dates How do you rate this edition of Police World? What would you improve? What did we get right? What would you have done differently? Send your review to: lee.hemmings@ipa-uk.org Police World is a members' publication. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy. Furthermore, the views expressed in articles are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Communications Team. If you have any comments,

please contact the Editor: lee.hemmings@ipa-uk.org

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An Update from the NEC

Working on your behalf

Mandy Kernohan was part of the IPA team at the World Police and Fire Games in Belfast. Read her personal account below.

H ow the WPFG 2013 came to Belfast and how IPA became involved is well documented but I suddenly found myself as the Secretary of Belfast branch to be very busy. It all started after the IEC in Romania in September 2011. We had several committee meetings and put plans together which were presented to the World Congress in Israel in 2012. Then in January 2013 the work started and I found myself dealing with requests for accommodation from all over the world. We as a committee had decided that although IPA members would get preference if any police officer wanted help and signed up to IPA then they would get help. In the next 6 months to the beginning of the Games I received 132 requests for accommodation which I was able to fix including two Croatian members who turned up in Belfast mid games with nowhere booked. The games started on 1 August and here is my diary. 30 July – Went to the Waterfront Hall, Northern Ireland’s largest concert arena and with other committee members set up the IPA stand very early in the morning. Used my charms to get Police officers on duty to carry in the banners and pop-up stands and items we were displaying on the stall. The exhibition stand was

staffed by IPA members from both the North and South of Ireland in a great piece of co- operation. Met Suzanne Byrne from Region 2 Canada – she was a dragon boat captain and had arrived in Belfast two short of a team. Found two local IPA members to become honorary Canadian IPA members. Imagine my surprise at the opening ceremony when the two of them walked out in team Canada t shirts at the opening ceremony. They both won a gold medal. On the exhibition stall and was not happy about the t-shirt display – we borrowed a mannequin from a local store and sent three officers from Section Ireland to collect it. Local police report three off duty police officers carrying what looked like a body through the streets of Belfast. Signed up two new IPA members from the UK and one Australian. About 800 people visited the stall. That night I had my first guest stay the night. 31 July – On the stall from 8.00am for a real busy day – over 2600 people visited the stall – never stopped talking – I met Olaf Baldurson from Iceland IPA. He is 1 metre taller than me. Met Mia the Secretary General from Finland and Jari Littama the President of IPA Finland. Left the stall at 9pm, home, changed the bed and had another IPA guest stay.

The Red Arrows

1 August – Back on the exhibition stand at 8.00am and talked to another 2000 people – renewed friendship with a great Canadian IPA member, Nicole Grandmont. Then got dressed up and went to the opening ceremony. At the sponsors function met both the Chief Constables of PSNI and An Garda (Ireland’s two police services). Also met Dame Mary Peters who was the Gold medal winner in Munich Olympics 1972 and a Belfast girl. 2 August – Joined by May-britt Reinaldo, President Section Sweden, who helped talk to about 1000 who visited the stand today. Was talked into joining a mixed 8 tug of war team. I arranged to have IPA t- shirts as a team strip. Met the IPA International President and arranged for a Swiss colleague to stay with my daughter. 3 August – The day of the Tug competition. Four males and four females, very nervous. Never done this sport before so I practiced in my kitchen with two towels tied together. Arrived at venue to find we had no coach. Saw a guy called Sam who was with his family. He became our coach and we ended up getting a silver medal. Defeated in the final by the Belgium Fire Brigade. The winning of the medal

Some of the IPA team

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8 August – Two new house guests – all day at the lawn bowls 9 August – All day at the final day of the lawn bowls. Tom Crozier Section UK and Gal Sharon (PEB) presented the medals. I then arranged for Gal and her husband to get VIP seats ringside at the boxing finals. I also arranged for 8 VIP tickets for the closing ceremony. Then onto a party at Northern Ireland Secretary, Pete Connolly’s, house. 10 August – Attended the closing ceremony at the Titanic slipway and enjoyed the Red Arrows fly overhead, great night of music and fun. Then went

onto the Athletes’ village and danced into the small hours. 11 August – Slept all day. It was not just me, there was a committee of 15 from both the North and South of Ireland – they were Team IPA WPFG 2013. To view more imagery from this event Visit: www.ipa-uk.org/WPFG-IPA- Welcome-Stand

allowed

me to forget the

immense muscular pain. 4 August – A sleep in followed by a nice meal and then onto the memorial service for fallen colleagues. It was great to meet again Joe and Sharon Holness from the National Police Memorial Day charity. The service was very moving and I shed a few tears. It was great to see the International President converse in French with my Deputy Chief Constable. Then all back to my house for wine and cheese, 24 people with Fatih Kursavas and Aper Acah from Turkey joining us along with Kees Saal (PEB) from Holland and the International President in my house!

Judith Gillespie, DCC PSNI and IPA member and Pierre-Martin Moulin, International President

Petra Loyer, Karen Gannon and May Britt Rinaldo

Carole Spence, Olaf Baldurson, Mandy Kernohan and Aiden Curtin

The team meet Dame Mary Peters

Mandy signs up a new member

5 August – This was supposed to be a rest day but I helped out some Greek IPA members, arranged for the collection of Gal Sharon from Israel and ensured she presented medals at the athletes’ village and then out for a party at Stephen Crockard’s Assistant International Secretary General. Two more guests staying the night. 6 August – The IPA day – the NEC from Section Ireland arrived and had an historic meeting in Belfast for the first time ever. The IPA sponsored lawn bowls event opened and I arranged lunch for all the IPA members. Stan the Panda arrived from England – it’s a 1960 police car. The Section UK NEC arrived and another historic first. I was really proud of the Belfast IPA Chair, Carole Spence, as she welcomed members of the PEB and the two executives from UK and Ireland. Then onto the IPA party which in the words of one of the organisers of the WPFG was the best party of the week – 235 IPA members from 24 countries had a taste of Guinness. 7 August – All day at Lawn Bowls – IPA sponsored event.

The tug of war team

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Article

Catherine preparing for patrol

Policja Placements Two weeks on a Police Exchange in Krakow, Poland? Yes please! That was the answer from the two members who were selected to represent Section UK in 2013. Read their accounts below.

Inside the control room at Poznan city headquarters Paul (far right)

W ednesday 15 May 2013, seemed like any other Wednesday that had gone before. My in tray was full of lots of emails to respond to and neighbourhood disputes to resolve. However, my eye was caught by one email that said ‘ two week placement in Poland opportunity ’. I thought “that sounds interesting” but got on with my work. During the rest of the day I could not stop thinking about the email so I decided that I would make a speculative inquiry. This enquiry ended up with my boarding a plane to Poznan. On landing my apprehension was soon put at ease when I was greeted by two Polish officers - one being my translator for the two weeks, Przemyslaw Kusik. My main base was at the city police headquarters with Przemyslaw. On the first day I was shown around his department, which was the crime prevention unit. I was warmly welcomed by all the staff there. I especially enjoyed talking with the chief of police, Hubert Haegenbarth, discussing the differences between working practices. Over the next two weeks, I met some fantastic people who all seemed very happy in their work; there was a mutual sharing of working practices and genuine interest in each other’s ways. I was given the opportunity to work alongside many departments during my stay including the custody units, both youth and adult. The youth

the saddle. The proudest moment for me was to be allowed to be part of the parade for the Police day. A day that celebrates and recognises officers who have earned promotion.

custody unit was of particular interest to me. It was fascinating to learn how closely they work with young offenders to get them back on track. One of the biggest surprises for me was to learn about the number of ranks they have in their organisation and the fact that rank doesn’t necessarily mean you have a higher position. Many departments are run by lower ranking officers than the people who work within them. Even Prezemyslaw remarked that it was confusing as he attempted to explain the system. I was shown around the scientific department and allowed access to all the weapons that had been seized or used in offences. I visited adjoining towns of Kornik and Gniezno and was welcomed by both chief officers and went out on patrol with the water police and realised how important their role is. The opportunity to take control of the boat was a real highlight - it came back in one piece too! Another thing that I was allowed to take control of was a horse on my visit to the police horse department. Again something that my police service doesn’t have so I was intrigued to see how much hard work and dedication goes into training the horse. During this visit I was asked if I wanted to get on one. “Of course,” I replied. I thought “ I have been on a donkey on Blackpool beach, how hard can it be?” Well with much laughter and a lot of struggling, several minutes later I somehow had managed to get myself into

The whole two weeks were an incredible experience. Learning about Polish policing and also the history and culture of the country was memorable. It is an experience that I will always cherish.

Special thanks must go to the following three people: Agnieszka Smoczyk who was my guide and translator. Witold Drzazdzynski, The Section Poland President, he must have worked tirelessly to put the programme together and nothing was ever too much for him. And of course Przemyslaw Kusik, my constant shadow, who was there to translate and explain throughout most of my stay. We ended up not just being colleagues but very good friends and will always remain in touch. Finally I would say to anybody, if such an opportunity presents itself, take it with both hands. Paul Jones , Cornwall branch

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Catherine takes over: My amazing adventure began when I was met by my wonderful hosts – Ola (Alexandra Gaczorek-Adamczyk) and IPA Secretary of Region Krakow Andrzej Gaczorek. The two weeks were action packed and I learnt a huge amount and I saw so many things and met so many people... too many to mention in this article. Every day I met incredible people who overwhelmed me with their kindness and generosity and who truly made me feel part of their family. Here is just a taste of what I experienced. I started working with the Oddzial Prewencji Policji (OPP), the riot police unit - which was a brilliant experience. I watched them train for a hostage situation and was lucky enough to have a quick test of a Kalashnikov. Later a bonfire and BBQ was held to relax. In Krakow headquarters I visited the crime laboratory where the lead experts are based for e-fits and CSI and I was given demonstrations of equipment and how images of suspects are created. A tour of the juvenile cells and the adult cells followed. I met with the counter terrorist unit (Samodzielny Pododdział Antyterrorystyczny Policji/SPAP) for a fascinating insight into their role, and I had a good nosey at their armoury. The underground range provided me with the chance to test the Walther P-99 pistol which most polish officers carry. I then went on patrol with Lukasz Adamczyk and Kamil Dacka. We responded to calls including suspicious males, thefts, intoxicated persons causing a nuisance and drugs searches. The next day was football duty as I again worked with Lukasz and Kamil on a late shift. The game was Wista Krakow v Gornik Zabrze. Due to potential crowd trouble they decided to pull me out of the crew and instead place me inside the stadium where I could watch the game! The water police took me for a spin on the river, and demonstrated how fast their boats could go which was awesome! I also spent a morning in the company of pilot Henryk Mika and was given a guided tour of the helicopters. On the last Friday I was honoured to be invited to attend the Police Day celebrations. This event is held in Nowy Sacz to mark those who are getting their promotions. Many dignitaries were in attendance. I then went on to the official opening of a brand new station in Stary Sacz. I would like to thank everyone I met in Poland especially Ola and her family, the IPA for arranging the exchange and my bosses who let me go! I look forward

Paul, with hosts, sightseeing in the beautiful town of Gniezno Back in one piece

to welcoming you to Northern Ireland in the near future and introducing you to my friends in L’Derry! Catherine Hainsworth , Northern Ireland North West branch

View more pictures

at www.ipa- uk.org/Polish- Placement

A real honour - on parade

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The Defensive Tactics Group committee organised a weekend training seminar at the North Wales Police firing range at Ruthin. The event attracted officers and staff from England, Wales, Sweden and Poland. T he weekend started with a BBQ at the home of the Group Secretary, Rob Stenhouse, so the participants could special training areas that allowed us to pressure test our techniques in unique Defensive Tactics Weekend COPS 2013

as well as martial arts training. At 7:30pm with little rest we moved on to the last session of the evening taken by Martin Cooper, Group Chair and former Lancashire police officer. Martin’s field of interest is the training systems of W.E. Fairbairn. Fairbairn is a very influential figure in the world of close- combat. Day two started with scenarios. After a warm-up and brief session with the Swedish ESDS trainers, we went over to the range to see what Rob and the team had in store. All trainees went through four scenarios designed to test not only fighting skills but the use of dialogue and persuasion to prevent conflict in the first place. Suffice to say the scenarios were very realistic and, surprisingly perhaps, all the more enjoyable for that. The last session was taken by our international patron, Peter Consterdine. Peter is very well- known in the British martial arts scene and has been involved in karate for over forty years and was a consultant for the Police Personal Safety Manual. Peter taught how to generate impact when striking. It was obvious that Peter has spent a lot of time and effort studying the subject and had a wealth of knowledge to impart. And then it was over - what a blast! What a success - phew! Future plans were hatched and discussions turned to when the next event will take place. Watch this space! Keith Sinclare , Vice Chair Defensive Tactics Group

environments; the dynamic and passive skills houses, a bus and a street scene. Rob and the training team arranged four scenarios in the dynamic skills house and set about putting the group through their paces. This turned out to be a highlight of the day as people tested themselves and their resolve. This was enjoyed by all and was, of course, great fun. Saturday was going to be another extensive day packed with seminars and practical lessons. Training started at 9am with another North Wales officer, our Treasurer, Tim Taylor, teaching a very thought provoking lesson on perceptual distortion. We then moved on to a practical lesson of boxing in self-defence situations again delivered by Tim Taylor. As a boxer and boxing coach he has the knowledge and skills to bridge the gap between the 'noble art' and street fighting. After lunch, Richard Dean, a business training specialist, gave a presentation on how to mentally prepare yourself for success. Richard explained how athletes prepare for competition and how we can apply the same principles to our training. Richard then moved onto teaching stress inoculation drills in the street scene. This was another practical lesson involving putting people in situations where they feel uncomfortable before they have to perform self- defence skills. Both insightful and interesting the trainees again threw themselves into the drills with gusto and enthusiasm. The Explosive Self Defence System was a session taught by the system’s creator and the founder of the Swedish IPA-DTG Slavo Godzik. Slavo designed the system with police officers in mind and drew upon his practical experiences

socialise before they began training the next day. This worked out perfectly to break the ice and made everyone feel welcome. The first day of training took place at the nearby University of Chester gymnasium. Thirty-seven trainees arrived for the session on knife awareness. Rob has studied this subject for some time and has combined his experiences of knife crime with the skills taught in personal safety training, self-defence and Ju-jitsu. Rob’s experience allowed him to present a credible defence to being attacked with a knife. Everyone actively trained hard and learnt some valuable lessons. After a light lunch my session began. The subject was the element of surprise - more specifically how to include the element of surprise in training. My programme was based on applying fundamental principles to a wide variety of situations rather than learning specific techniques for specific attacks. The training drills attempted to recreate realistic scenarios and were often very demanding, both physically and mentally. One could say exhausting. Fortunately there was no lack of enthusiasm from the trainees. Slightly weary the group moved location to the Ruthin Range for the final session of day one. Looking like a set from a James Bond movie the range particularly impressed the officers from Poland. It is worth mentioning that these officers are members of the firearms team of an elite police unit and are not easily impressed. The range is a fantastic resource and we are immensely grateful to North Wales police for allowing us to use it. There are a number of

For more information about the Group visit www.ipa-uk.org/ Defensive-Tactics

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In March 2013 four police officers from Silesia, Poland took part in a professional exchange in Cambridgeshire. Witamy w Cambridgeshire

T he four officers from Section Poland: Janusz Trzesimiech, Komisare Jakub Skrzypek, Marek Dzierzega and Adam Stepczynski spent six days in England to gain a better understanding of how policing in Britain is done. For the officers this visit to the Fenland area, which has a population of migrant workers from Eastern Europe, gave them the opportunity to see how migrants view the police in the UK. It also allowed the Polish officers to see how British officers deal with a range Detective Inspector. They also learned about the training and deployment of the taser and had the opportunity to discharge them on the range. The four in return demonstrated their self-defence skills to a group of student officers at the force’s Officer Safety Training Unit. After visiting the force control room they also spent time with representatives from a drugs intervention scheme, which works closely with the police in Peterborough. It was then time to meet up with the Fenland Police Commander, Chief Inspector Mike Winters, who said, “We understanding of the policing culture in Poland. It is so very different to how we approach it. It has been fascinating.” The Polish guests were then introduced to the Mayor of March, Jan French, and presented her with a bottle of Bison Grass vodka. In return the officers were presented with a traditional police helmet and truncheon. It wasn’t all work however and in the short time available members from of policing activities from traffic collisions to crime investigation. The officers met Simon Parr, the Chief Constable of Cambridgeshire, some collision investigators and an area do have a significant migrant community here. It has been interesting to get a better

Cambridgeshire branch allowed time for their guests to visit London - which included a private tour of the Houses of Parliament, lunch in China Town and an evening with the Yeoman Warders of HM Tower of London. A traditional full English breakfast and an evening in a haunted riverside pub near St Ives rounded off the social side of the visit. The exchange of experiences and information threw up some interesting differences between policing styles in Poland and the UK. While British police rely heavily on technology, for example automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and laser recording of serious road traffic collision scenes, the Polish police have the benefit of higher police numbers. On an everyday domestic level the Polish police officers were taken aback by some of the more mundane items of technology – namely separate hot and cold taps and pull cord light switches! The Polish officers reported that the perception of police in Poland is generally positive, with 70 per cent of people supporting the police, even though they have a more direct approach in their policing methods. I am keen to encourage other branches to consider arranging similar professional exchange visits. I can recommend that each visit is a great opportunity to promote the IPA among serving officers and staff and raise the profile of the IPA with senior officers - although they do take a lot of planning and work, it is worth it. A return visit to Silesia by serving officers and staff from Cambridgeshire is taking place in September. Another

At Downing Street during the trip to London

In the control room

Sampling some local refreshments

visit by Polish officers is also scheduled for the New Year. Steve Bretherton , Cambridgeshire branch

Editor’s note: ‘Witamy w’ translates as ‘welcome to’.

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Article

A Magical Experience

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more pictures from the trip Facebook Search for Rochdale and District IPA on

Phil Gilver and his counterpart in Poland, Tomek, arranged a Rochdale branch touring extravaganza for fifteen intrepid travellers in Poland. Phil recalls some highlights from the trip. T he warm welcome we received on arrival was just a foretaste of the amazing hospitality that we received throughout our holiday. Our Polish hosts certainly wanted to show off what their country has to offer. A minibus whisked us off to our first destination - Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. Our feet had hardly dispelled as the evening progressed with our friendly hosts. The next day saw our trusty minibus climb up into the Tatra mountains, crossing into Slovakia where we took a cable car ride from Tatranská Lomnica up to Skalnaté Pleso. We then proceeded onwards to the Demänowská Ice Caves. Once inside, we passed through an area where the temperature sits at 0°C giving rise to spectacular ice formations, stalactites and stalagmites.

than London’s Big Ben. After drinking in the history of Wawel, we moved on in the afternoon to the factory owned and operated by Oskar Schindler, immortalised in the 1993 film “Schindler’s List”. The factory is now an evocative exhibition site, chronicling what occurred there and in Krakow under Nazi occupation. Passing through the many rooms and corridors, spread over several floors, we periodically stamped souvenir clock cards - each one dated to show a different period in the factory’s history. Among the final visits to the landmarks of Krakow was the 250 foot high Tower at the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy. We had a superb view of the city from its observation platform. Coming down from these lofty heights we travelled to Wieliczka to descend into the bowels of the earth at the town’s world famous salt mine, opened in the 13th century and producing table salt until 2007. Miners have carved out dozens of statues from the grey salt, as well as three chapels, and even a cathedral. The whole experience was rather magical. One final surprise awaited us at the airport. Our guides from Krakow had commented that they would be working at the airport that day and would hopefully see us there. I don’t think we were expecting to be greeted by two members of the Polish Border Guard! The hospitality which had been a wonderful feature throughout our stay in Poland continued even at this late stage. The guards presented each of our ladies with a large heart shaped biscuit. The men each received a bottle of Klasztorne Pivo - monastic beer. It was unforgettable holiday which had been so wonderfully enhanced by the sincere friendship of our hosts. When people have to say goodbye, it is sometimes accompanied with the comment, ‘we’ll see you again for sure’. In this instance, the comments were heartfelt. Phil Gilliver , Rochdale branch

touched the ground, or indeed our backs the hotel beds, before we were on our way again to the 17th Century Franciscan Monastery around which the town was established. The next morning dawned grey and misty - which seemed rather appropriate as accompanied by Artur, a Polish IPA member, we made our way to Oświęcim - better known as Auschwitz. Here we toured and relived what had taken place here during WW II. The afternoon saw our party in lighter mood as we visited Wadowice, the charming birthplace of the late Pope John Paul ll. We were also able to enjoy the beauty of St Mary’s Basilica. The next excursion with Artur, now joined by Bartek, was an invite to be the guests of the Mayor of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. We learned that this town is famous for the manufacture of furniture, and it seemed there was a factory on every street corner. Along with the Mayor, we were ushered into one such establishment, to be shown the production process and view the many examples of what was being made. One of our party asked if he could take home some samples. His question was met with broad smiles and he was to reap what he had sown later! Our next port of call was the ancient town of Zator - home to Poland’s largest park of model dinosaurs – which moved realistically and sounded quite fearsome. After returning to our hotel we were joined by members from the local IPA branch, whose great hospitality was once more in evidence. The samples requested earlier in the day at the furniture factory duly appeared, courtesy of a local policemen - any embarrassment was swiftly

Emerging into the bright sunshine once more, we were taken for dinner to a log cabin restaurant where fish can be caught in the pool inside using a fishing rod. Tradition decrees that you pay for what you catch but everyone helps you to eat it. We were soon on the road again heading for our ultimate destination of Krakow. On the way there we were treated to a wonderful leisurely trip down the Dunajec river from Sromowce Kąty. Our transport was not boats but rafts - each made up of five wooden canoe-like vessels fastened together side by side. These rafts carried around a dozen people and were propelled by two muscular boatman. With Poland on one bank and Slovakia on the other it was an idyllic journey of around two hours on the often fast flowing water. Our boatman enthusiastically described everything - naturally in Polish! We disembarked at Szczawnica. At dinner we were joined by Polish IPA colleagues Wyszek and Krzysztof who then escorted us on foot around Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter of Krakow before spending a very enjoyable hour in a bar where we were entertained by a trio of musicians. On our first full day in Krakow, we climbed up the cobbled road to the top of the hill to visit Wawel castle, inside which sits Wawel cathedral - which is the spiritual centre of Poland. It is not easy to describe the grandeur of the 18 chapels or the splendour of the many ornate marble tombs it houses - including the solid silver coffin of Poland’s patron saint, Saint Stanisław. It was truly awe inspiring, as was the Sigismund tower, and its great bell which is one third heavier and 350 years older

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Erste Konferenz in Deutschland statt

The Motorcycle Group held their 2013 AGM at Gimborn Castle, Germany - the first time the Group has held such a meeting overseas. It was also the first time new member Tracey Seavers had travelled to Europe on a bike. Tracy tells of her experience.

T his was our first trip with the IPA as my husband Dave and I are new members. It was also our first venture in to Europe on a motorbike. After months of anticipation, packing and then repacking, downsizing the luggage, it was with a mixture of excitement and nerves that we were finally on our way. Due to the amazing organisational skills of Dave Taylor it all ran like clockwork. Twenty six bikes and one car set off together for the Eurotunnel. Much to my husband’s amusement I hung on for dear life. Having watched the film Jaws, too many times, I was slightly nervous of being in a tunnel under the sea. Warning! Pillions mind your head as you climb back on the bike, the ceilings on the train are low, which I discovered with a bump! Out we rode and scattered like a star burst, all heading our own way to Ghent, where we were

after closing time so we could see everything. We also saw the beach at Dunkirk, beautiful, but thinking of what happened there was sobering. Being pillion gave me the opportunity to take in all the surrounding sights as we travelled through France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany. Sheep and goats kept in gardens in towns, mannequins waving red flags at road works, areas of no speed limits, people riding mopeds on the path and all the beautiful scenery surrounded us. Being on the back of the bike on the other side of the road was nerve racking to start with but with well signposted roads everything was made easy for us Brits. You couldn’t go the wrong way even if you tried - or so I thought. We kept passing road signs at slip roads for ‘Ausfahrt’. I thought wow, that must be a large German town or city, as there were so many ways to it from the autobahn? After passing the same sign another 5 or 6 times it suddenly dawned on me that it meant exit. Proof, if needed, that I was a European biker novice! Another must do for Dave and I whilst in Europe was to visit a concentration camp. We visited Fort Breendonk in Belgium along with Jez. Standing and walking where the detainees had been, touching the walls, standing in the room where they had been tortured, reading their stories and seeing where they were executed was emotional - what can I say? We finally arrived at Gimborn, and stayed for two nights. What a beautiful place and beautiful area. Meal times were prompt or you risked the wrath of the landlady of the pub. Whilst Dave attended the AGM I set out for a walk with Hilary Spencer, after which the two of us sat drinking tea in the sunshine, overlooking the gardens, on a little terrace. No riding the day of the AGM, just time to relax and get the body used to being upright and walking again. The group also attended the Last Post

Mike Vince with the wreath

Ceremony at The Menin Gate in Ieper (Ypres). The Ceremony has become part of the daily life in Ieper and the local people are proud of this simple but moving tribute to the courage and self-sacrifice of those who fell in defence of their town. At 8pm the bugles sounded and silence was observed, followed by a very smart and proud Mike Vince who laid a wreath on behalf of the motorcycle group. An amazing end to a wonderful trip, filled with so many memories and experiences. I met two inspirational ladies during the trip. The first was Hilary, who was new to being a pillion but still came on the trip. Second was Liz Waters - whilst talking to Liz about our visit to the concentration camp she told me her Dad had been detained at Dachau. Enough said. After approximately 1201 miles ridden on the bike, stiffening up and struggling to get off at rest stops - would I do it again? In a heartbeat! If anyone is thinking of joining the group, DO IT, it has opened up a whole new world of experiences for me and Dave. Tracy Seavers , Motorcycling Group To see a selection of images taken during the trip, visit: www.ipa-uk.org/Motorcycle-Group-AGM-2013

staying overnight. Dave, Jez Moore and I detoured to Dunkirk to the Dynamo War

Museum, where between us we managed to buy the entrance tickets and postcards. Thanks to the lovely French gentleman who stayed open

Tracey and Dave Seavers

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Article

What a Star Two Hertfordshire branch members Phil Rosier and Emily Hughes were keen to travel to the USA - partly to celebrate a birthday. Could the IPA assist? You bet!

12 Police World Vol 58 No.4 2013 O rlando, “most visited US destination” according to a tourism website and July, one of the busiest times of the year. These factors meant that along with my last minute trip planning I was understandably going to struggle arranging an IPA visit during our holiday in the area. I was hoping to arrange ride-along, an Independence Day celebration and possible trips to a shooting range to indulge in my favourite pastime. Bud Lathrop, UK liaison offer in the US, said he would pass the request on but owing to short notice it might be difficult. I was amazed when I received a response from Region 45. Member Larry McCormick stepped forward and not only offered to arrange a ride-along and range visit but also invited us to stay with him at his ‘condo’ on Merritt Island - situated in Florida’s Space coast and home to the Kennedy Space Centre. Come the first week of July, my girlfriend Emily Hughes (Em) and I travelled to Florida and met Larry, a retired New York State trooper, and his partner Anne. Larry’s home is filled with decades of memories from both his time as a trooper and his on-going involvement with the IPA. Letters of thanks, pictures, police patches from all over the world and other memorabilia adorn almost every wall within his home. The collection was impressive on its own and Larry’s own memories and stories, of his experiences, made it much more special. On one of the first days of our visit, Larry took us to the East Precinct of the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office where Em and I met deputy Don Eri and deputy Jenny Rivera who were kind enough to take us out on patrol for part of their shift. We accompanied the deputies in general patrols where we got a feel for the area and most common problems faced by our colleagues. During those patrols we attended a report of a missing teenager who, after falling out with his older sister, had run away and who had allegedly been missing for just over an hour. He was found safe and well when local boat owners saw him hiding from the Sheriff’s helicopter after he had been swimming in a nearby waterway. A fine example of how misleading people can be, intentionally or otherwise, when reporting the circumstances about their missing loved ones. Don and Jenny also took the time to

share with us the most important thing for police officers anywhere to know…. the best local places to get breakfast! A few days later and our host had managed to organise something above and beyond anything we had asked for - a helicopter trip in one of the Sheriff Department’s aircraft. From Merritt Island airport we were flown around the area, taking in spectacular aerial views of Port Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, and a distant view of Kennedy Space Centre’s impressive vehicle assembly building. We were unable to properly thank our pilot for the ride as moments after we touched down, the helicopter was dispatched to assist with a live incident. We celebrated Em’s birthday, which happens to fall on Independence Day, at Sea World’s Discovery Cove swimming with dolphins before going on to watch the massive fireworks display held at Sea World in the evening. Our eternal thanks go to Larry who personifies everything the IPA stands for. It was thanks to his generosity, kindness and companionship that facilitated our fantastic visit to Florida. It is my hope to be able to return the good turn to him in the future. Phil Rosier

Phil, Emily and Larry

Emily prepares for the ride-along

Phil with Jenny Rivera and Don Eri

Jenny Rivera and Emily

Emily at the controls

Article

Treasure Hunt Six teams from Cambridgeshire branch took a challenge to try and be the first to find the treasure. Nigel Wilson reveals what took place on the day. T his was the second event of this type that the branch had organised. The first was such a successful and the correct route and were not lost in the wilds of Cambridgeshire or some adjoining county. on four wheels

Contestants enjoying a meal and well earned drink at the finish post

looking rather weary. In the words of someone more famous than I, ‘I counted them all out and I counted them all back.’ Everyone enjoyed a meal in the sunshine while I worked out the results. The winning team was ‘Clutching at Straws’ comprising branch Treasurer, Steve Palmer and his wife Lynn. So in true car racing style, the presentation of the bottle of champagne was made to them by Dominic Flynn, holding manager of The Fitzwilliam Arms. Dominic kindly donated the prize and arranged a reception for us all on a very busy Sunday. Nigel Wilson , Cambridgeshire branch Chair

enjoyable day that members asked for another. Not one to disappoint I set about plotting again. I had timed and measured the course and calculated it should take around the two and a half hour mark, with a total distance of 29.4 miles. The hunt format was simple. Get a car with at least two people in it and give them a number of clues - some cryptic, some anagram and some pictorial. Solve the clues, and if correct, the answers lead to a variety of locations. Extra bonus points could be earned for correctly identifying the locations, signs and logos etc. The winners were determined not only from the team with the most correct answers, but also on the time taken to complete the course - combined with the number of miles This years’s event started at Thorpe Wood police station on, thankfully, a warm and sunny morning. I set the teams off at regular intervals on a route that took them to the edge of Peterborough city centre and then to the outlying villages. In addition to having fun, teams also discovered things like what a wash dyke was used for many years ago and the location of a spring which reputedly once had an ancient sword found in it. The teams then continued en route to the grand 16th century Burghley House. This location gave the perfect opportunity for the judges, my wife Mandy and I, to check on their progress. More importantly it allowed us to check that the teams were still following driven. Only when all this had been calculated were the winners decided.

Towards the finish the route took the teams on a quick visit to Stamford, past the house lived in at one time by Sir Malcolm Sargent an English conductor, organist and composer.

“ I counted them all out and I counted them all back. ”

By now, Mandy and I were waiting in the garden of a local inn for the first to arrive. We waited, and waited, and waited some more. In fact it got to the point where I did actually start to worry that everyone was lost! But then, one by one, the teams arrived - all

The winning team, ‘Clutching at Straws’, being presented with their prize by Holding Manager Dominic Flynn

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Po David and Barbara Marchant organised a Caravan and Camping Group Rally invasion of Utah beach and other sites in Normandy, France. David tells of what took place - including a brush with royalty - during the D-Day Celebrations. Surprise Guests in Normandy

T here were gasps of surprise from the 30 plus ralliers - including 1 new member and 2 dogs - when we were graced with an impromptu visit by four members of the Royal Family - including the Queen. I was assured that they enjoyed ‘visiting’ their faithful subjects. The visit coincided with the Diamond Jubilee of the coronation of Queen Elizabeth. We all dressed in Red, White, Blue, (or all three) and many Union Flags were flown. As organisers we had decided that a raffle would be held in aid of the two police convalescent homes at Flint House and in Harrogate. The ralliers donated many prizes, with four mystery prizes purchased by us. Angela Hullah had spent most of the rally knitting a ‘Golfer’. We decided to auction this as it was just too good to be a raffle prize. The auction raised another £40, from a generous member. It had also been planned that ‘Robbie’ Robson, who at 80 was the oldest member there, was going to make a ‘Tandem Parachute’ jump; he had asked that each person sponsor him for £5 to raise even more money for the Homes. Unfortunately, due to high winds this could not happen; he did try again the next day but again it was cancelled. The raffle and auction raised a total of £220. I was able to present both cheques at the group’s AGM at Flint House, which, fortunately, was also attended by the Director of the home in

Harrogate. Many of us went to the main museum at Utah Beach; this was the scene of an official D-day celebration and service, followed by a ‘Round’ parachute jump from an original DC3 aeroplane. There was much

To see more photos from this event visit: www.ipa-uk.org /Surprise-Guests

The Royal visitors

celebration with a marching band, BBQs, and later entertainment with a jazz band. General Patton’s great grand-daughter was there to celebrate, and was handing out CDs of the music to go with next year’s 70th anniversary fireworks. Members of the Normandy branches were invited to our farewell evening and three members attended, including the Presidents of two of the three branches. We exchanged gifts - which included unusual bottles of commemorative IPA wine, and a drink made by one of the group

called 44. The group decided that Barbara and I should have this as a thank you for organising the rally. David Marchant

The Caravan and Camping Group D-day ralliers

Maybe next time Robbie

Vehicles at the D-day celebrations

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Estonian 20 Year Extravaganza

Kiran Gharial, from Middlesex branch, represented Section UK at the 20th Anniversary Celebration of Section Estonia. Kiran’s story shows why this type of event is an ideal way to experience different cultures.

I first heard about this event in December 2012, via an e-mail from Mark Bullen, 9 Region’s Secretary. Having been on my first IPA trip to Germany for the 2012 ’Oktoberfest’ - and having thoroughly enjoyed it - I decided to register for this trip too. When the big day arrived I was met by two Estonian IPA representatives. I was to stay in Paide, a town located about 1.5 hours away from Tallinn. The main highlight of the celebrations was the parade with participants in full uniform. We marched through the streets and in to the town centre - accompanied by a band. Military, police and fire vehicles were following behind en route to the town square, where a public safety day had been arranged. We also had the opportunity to have photographs taken and engaged with the public about international policing. Shows demonstrated the use of a police dog and fire rescue equipment. The final show was a helicopter fly-by with military officers abseiling down to a rooftop and then on to the ground. Our accommodation was located at the residence hall of Jarva County Vocational Training Centre (JCVTC). A dinner and social gathering had been arranged for us all - which proved to be a good opportunity to meet fellow police personnel.

The next morning there was a short trip to nearby Wittenstein tower and Rakvere castle. Lunch was served with a medieval theme. A visit to the police museum followed. The following morning we headed out to the city of Tartu, which included a tour of the university. Lunch had an explosive atmosphere as it was served in the gunpowder cellar! Back in Paide we were guests at a reception with the Mayor in the city hall - where he made a presentation about policing in Estonia. We then made our way to the Cultural Centre for a banquet - at which all participants attended. After an introduction about the IPA in Estonia, there was entertainment from a choir and folk dancing. It was a fantastic evening for everyone! On the last day, there was time to say goodbye to new friends and exchange details before heading off to the airport. I managed to spend a couple of hours sightseeing in Tallinn prior to my departure. I would like to thank Section Estonia for their organisation of this event and congratulate all representatives for their part in its success. Kiran Gharial , Middlesex branch

Wittenstein tower

Scott Patten (USA), David Moore (UK), K. Arsaratnam (Sri Lanka) and Andre Lankreit (Belgium) at lunch in Old Ammunition Cellar in Tartu.

Below, Kiran at Rakvere Castle with three German members and a mother and daughter from Holland

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