Three colleagues from Hertfordshire Constabulary brought home medals after representing the UK at the European Police Athletics Championships.
During the summer, Sergeant Ciaran Palfreyman, PC Lauren Thompson and Assistant Investigator Hannah Ridley were selected to represent the nation at the championships after meeting the qualification standards at the UK National Championships. This saw them head off to Prague, the Czech Republic’s capital city, who were the hosts for the competition at the end of August.
Police officers and staff from 16 European countries took part in 18 different track and field disciplines.
On day one, Assistant Investigator Hannah Ridley burst into action and delivered a thrilling performance to secure a hard-earned bronze medal in the women’s 800 metres.
Just moments later, another bronze medal was secured by PC Lauren Thompson who competed in the women’s 400 metres.
The excitement and medals continued into day two which saw Thompson back in action for the first ever mixed 4×400 metre relay, joined by colleague and training partner Sergeant Ciaran Palfreyman and their male teammates from the Metropolitan and City of London Police. Together, they brought home an impressive silver medal, beating the hosts Czech Republic who secured bronze and just behind Germany who secured gold.
PC Lauren Thompson said: “To represent my country in athletics has always been a dream and to be able to do that as a police officer is an absolute honour.”
Sergeant Ciaran Palfreyman added: “Prague provided the most amazing platform for police officers from different countries to come together, compete and build lasting bonds. These athletes not only serve their communities but also excel in sports, so to juggle work, life and training takes dedication and discipline. The camaraderie and sportsmanship were wonderful to see and be a part of and it shows that unity and collaboration are essential not only in sports but in the field of policing.”
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