We often hear of the numbers of police being cut, and of what the police are being asked to do by the Government as well as the public.

But how often do we hear about it from the policeman’s own view. Minimum Cover is one way for us to do so. I’ve just read the latest post having been pointed there on Facebook by a Scouting friend.

He looked straight at me through the smoke….mouthing words that had no sound…and then there was silence.

So often our policemen and women face situations that most of us never want to see, let alone experience first hand.

It was National Police Memorial Day on Sunday past. This year it was commemorated in Scotland. Amongst those remembered this year was Constable Ronan Kerr, of the Police Service of Northern Ireland. His mother, Nuala Kerr lit a candle at the service in Glasgow which was also attended by Northern Ireland’s Justice Minister, David Ford MLA.

We should never forget those who put their lives in danger to serve society. We owe them all a great deal of gratitude. As David Ford said, The National Police Memorial Day Service

provides an opportunity for the whole police community throughout the UK to join with families, friends and colleagues to remember those officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Another way to remember police officers is to join the Police Roll of Honour Trust (Individual membership from £10).

And remember, next time you see a police officer out on the beat, why not smile and say hello. We must never forget that a simple smile and greeting may make a day seem a bit better.