Two Leicestershire police officers have had rooms named in their memory at special ceremonies this month.
DC Matt Spradbury lost his fight against Motor Neurone Disease in 2016 aged 49, having spent the last few months of his life raising funds and awareness of the illness. Although he retired as a police officer when he was diagnosed, he returned to Leicestershire Police as a member of staff working within major crime.
The Major Crime Conference Room at Beaumont Leys police station was named in Matt’s memory at an event on Friday 11 August, for staff and Matt’s family and friends.
At a similar event today (Friday 18 August), at Leicestershire Polices’ headquarters in Enderby, a new meeting room for Operations Planning was named in honour of PC Austin Jackson. Austin died after being taken ill suddenly while on duty earlier this year. He had been a neighbourhood officer at Spinney Hill and, like Matt, was popular with colleagues and within the community.
Chief Constable Simon Cole said: “We have sought to remember colleagues that we have lost by naming rooms after them. We are honoured to have served with these two officers, and that their families will be with us for the ceremonies to make sure their names live on in force history.
“DC Spradbury and PC Jackson were well-liked and respected, not only by the people they worked with but also the people they worked for and it is fitting that we should mark the esteem in which they were held.”
Simone, wife of PC Jackson added: “The children and I are so proud of all that Austin has achieved in his police career. The children all look up to Austin as a role model, as he was the most dedicated husband, father and police officer.
“To have a room named after him is just amazing and the support from the police family is incredible, we can’t thank you enough.”
Verene, wife of DC Spradbury added: “From the onset of Matt’s illness we, as a family, have received overwhelming support from friends and colleagues within Leicestershire Police. We feel very proud to have this room dedicated in his memory.
“Matt loved working in Major Crime and continued until he was physically unable. It is so lovely to know that Matt was so well respected to be bestowed this honour. Thank you so much to all of those involved.”
Source:: Leicestershire Police News