Dyfed Powys Police Federation chair Gareth Jones hopes the merger of two police memorial charities will pave the way for a permanent tribute to fallen Welsh officers.

The Police Remembrance Trust has been formed from the amalgamation of the National Police Memorial Day and the Police Roll of Honour Trust.

Paul Griffiths, former president of the Police Superintendents’ Association (left), and the Reverend Canon David Wilbraham, signing official documents for the new charity.

The new trust has confirmed that the creation of a Welsh Police Memorial remains a priority.

Gareth said: “It’s fantastic to hear that a Welsh Police Memorial is high on the agenda for the new trust.

“As it stands, Wales doesn’t have a memorial dedicated to the memory of fallen police officers. It’s the only country in the UK in that respect.

“Hopefully, the combined strength and expertise of the National Police Memorial Day and the Police Roll of Honour Trust will pave the way for it to become a reality and we can have a lasting tribute to the Welsh officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.”

The Reverend Canon David Wilbraham MBE, newly-elected chair of the Police Remembrance Trust, said: “This is a huge moment in the history of these two charities.

“We believe that together we can build on their vision, work and commitment.

“To all who have been involved with National Police Memorial Day and the Police Roll of Honour Trust we are grateful for your support over the years and invite you to remain on this journey with us with continuing commitment and enthusiasm.”

Gareth said he was looking forward to Wales hosting the annual National Police Memorial Day later this year.

Preparations are underway for a special weekend to mark the 20th anniversary of the Memorial Day. There will be a performance by the British Police Symphony Orchestra on Saturday 23 September in St David’s Hall, Cardiff. The service itself will be held on Sunday 24 September, also in St David’s Hall in Cardiff.

Gareth said: “I look forward to welcoming the policing family to Wales for the National Police Memorial Day, one of the most important dates in the policing calendar.

“It allows us to come together with our colleagues across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to pause and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It also allows us to give our support for their families and loved ones, and to show that they’ll never be forgotten.”