Royal recognition for bereaved families

Bryn Hughes, the campaigning father of a murdered policewoman, says he is “overwhelmed” by the Government’s decision to award the Elizabeth Emblem to public servants killed in the line of duty.

The Emblem will be awarded as recognition to the next of kin of “those who lost their lives in the course of undertaking eligible public service.”

Mr Hughes and Paul Bone's daughters' PCs Nicola Hughes and Fiona Bone were two unarmed police officers murdered in Greater Manchester in 2012.

The Emblem is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK armed forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack.

Mr Hughes, whose daughter Nicola attended Saddleworth School, said: ”My initial campaign was focused on emergency service workers, police officers, paramedics, firefighters.

“But it's been broadened to include public sectors workers, the two MPs who were sadly murdered, and potentially NHS workers who lost their lives in the pandemic.

"The scale of this is phenomenal.”

Mr Hughes said: “There was nothing tangible, there was no formal statement of recognition for the likes of Nicola and Fiona who lost their lives that day.

“And there were other police officers…  and that’s why I thought there needs to be some sort of recognition.

“I have said this time and time again, that morning in September 2012, NIcola and Fiona both went to work serving the Crown and wearing the crown on their uniform.

"It’s now only right and fitting the Crown recognises that sacrifice.”

The award will be conferred on the bereaved families of police officers, firefighters and other emergency workers and public servants by the King.

Oliver Dowden, the Deputy Prime Minister, said: “We will not forget those who died in our service.

“The Elizabeth Emblem will bring the nation together to honour the dedication and commitment of these exceptional public servants who have given their lives in service of the United Kingdom.”

The Emblem is inscribed with the words “For A Life Given In Service”, and will have the name of the person commemorated inscribed on the reverse.

It will also include a pin so it can be worn by their next of kin.

Families are able to apply for the emblem via: gov.uk, with nominations then reviewed by the George Cross Committee before recommendations are made to the King via the Prime Minister.

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.