Police descended on Glasgow’s streets for special event

Detectives paraded in the city to mark the National Police Memorial Day Service.

Almost 5,000 fallen officers who lost their lives on duty were remembered at the Royal Concert Hall.

Secretaries of State and Police Chiefs joined a congregation of more than 1,000 people during the emotional event.

Police paraded in Glasgow (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: Famous music legend has been spotted in Glasgow pub

The police parade followed more than 40 force standards from George Square to Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, where they joined a guard of honour involving officers from the UK and overseas.

Police Scotland also arranged a flyover as a mark of respect.

Family members participated in the service, which poignantly honoured fallen officers’ commitment, courage, and sacrifice.

This being the anniversary year of the Chinook helicopter tragedy on the Mull of Kintyre, a wreath was laid to commemorate lives lost in air disasters, many of which have happened on Scottish soil.

Police horses at the event (Image: Jeff J Mitchell)

The event was held in Glasgow (Image: Jeff J Mitchell)

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, who gave a reading during the service, said: “Today, we mourn and remember all the officers who have given their lives in service to the public.

“We thank them and pay tribute to their bravery, their dedication and their sacrifice. We stand with their families who continue to live with the pain of losing their loved one and the pride for their incredible work to keep us safe.

“Policing is an extraordinary job - our officers run towards danger as others retreat.

“We owe these officers a debt that can never be forgotten.”

The police parade followed more than 40 force standards from George Square to Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (Image: Jeff J Mitchell)

READ MORE: Man arrested after armed police spotted in Glasgow

First Minister John Swinney said: “On behalf of everyone in Scotland, I would like to take this opportunity to tell the officers and staff of Police Scotland how much we appreciate their bravery.

"I pledge we will not forget those who have lost their lives serving our communities.

“I know all in Police Scotland are dedicated professionals performing their jobs to the highest standard and working hard to protect all of us, no matter the circumstances or the danger involved.

“Every life lost in the line of duty is one we remember and this event allows us to honour all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while keeping us safe. We also recognise the loss felt by loved ones of those brave and committed officers, and they are in my thoughts.”

Family members participated in the service (Image: Jeff J Mitchell)

READ MORE: Glasgow baby saved by doctor’s accidental discovery

During the service, prayers were said by family members.

Candles were lit by relatives in remembrance of officers throughout the country who have lost their lives, one from each of the four nations of the United Kingdom.