Get on your bike and take on a long-distance cycling challenge in memory of fallen police officers.

The annual Police Unity Tour raises money for Care of Police Survivors (COPS) – a charity that helps the families of fallen colleagues – and Dyfed Powys Police Federation members are being encouraged to take part.

Branch chair Gareth Jones said: “There are few jobs in which people go to work at the start of their shift and can’t guarantee they’ll return home safely.

“Policing is one of those roles and all too often officers do make the ultimate sacrifice.

“We’re a tight-knit community and when something happens to a colleague it sends a shockwave through the Force and the wider police service.

“So it’s vital we keep their memories alive and show our support for the surviving family in whatever way we can.

“The Police Unity Tour is a fantastic event that supports the important work of COPS and raises awareness of those officers who have died in the line of duty.”

Officers are being urged to sign up for this year's PUT ride

Serving and retired police officers and Specials can take part in the 200-mile bike ride.

It starts on Friday 28 July and ends on Sunday 30 July at the National Memorial Arboretum, where a service of remembrance is being held by COPS for fallen officers and colleagues.

During the event, each cyclist will wear a wristband specifically dedicated to a fallen officer - with these bracelets given to family members of those officers at the end of the ride.

Gareth said: “Riding in memory of a fallen officer and then giving the bracelet to their family at the end can be very powerful and emotional.

“And it’s because everyone is coming together for those families and in memory of their loved ones that the Police Unity Tour is such a special event.”

It costs £150 to sign up for the event, with a commitment to raise a minimum of £400. 

Find out more information or register for this year’s event.