Triathlon in memory of Police Officer that died on duty when responding to an emergency call

On the 5 January 2013, Police Constable Andrew Bramma died in a crash as he responded to an emergency call through West Tanfield near Ripon.

Paul Lander, editor of Police Professional magazine, set off on a challenge in aid of the Police Memorial Trust, to complete 100, Olympic distance triathlons .

Part of the challenge was to visit forces across the country who have lost an officer while on duty, that is one per day, including Christmas Day.

Today, family of PC Bramma’s made the journey from West Yorkshire, colleagues from North Yorkshire Police, a local triathlon team and friends of PC Bramma joined Paul in his challenge that began at Thirsk Leisure Centre.

It began with a 1,500 metre swim by Paul before the cycling team set off on a 40k ride to West Tanfield where a minute’s silence was held outside St Nicholas Church.

Paul sets off on the cycling leg with colleagues & friends of PC Bramma: left to right Glen Alderson, childhood friend of PC Bramma and British Transport Police officer, Dr Dave Murray of Hambleton Triathlon Team, PC Sarah Norman, Paul Landers, Detective Chief Inspector Dave Ellis,and retired PC, Mark Whitehouse

Then it was back to Thirsk where Paul was joined by more colleagues to complete a 10k run around Thirsk.

Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police, Lisa Winward, said:

We’re honoured to support Paul in his efforts in aid of the Police Memorial Trust. The 5th January will always be a difficult day for the force as we remember PC Bramma’s untimely death.

Doing something positive that will also help lots of other police families who have lost someone is a poignant and fitting way to remember him. Our thoughts remain with the family, colleagues and friends of PC Bramma at this time.

Paul said:

It is my honour to come to North Yorkshire and complete triathlon number 67 in tribute to the sacrifice made by your officers and staff every day to keep us safe. My thoughts are with PC Bramma’s family, friends and colleagues on this sad anniversary.