Family in memorial day plea for killers of young officer to be brought to justice

Q Radio News

The brother of a policeman murdered by the IRA says he feels let down by the investigation into the killing.

21-year-old Michael Ferguson was shot dead in Derry-Londonderry in 1993.

He was one of the police officers remembered at a special memorial ceremony in Belfast's Waterfront Hall on Sunday.

Four candles were lit to represent the loss of the four nations of the United Kingdom. 

Constable Ferguson's brother and sister Joseph and Susan lit a candle for him, representing Northern Ireland.

Joseph says they received a lot of support when the murder happened - but not so much since...

Joseph went on to say the murder had a devastating impact on the family including his late mother...

One person has been convicted, but the family feels more could be done to bring the rest of the killer gang to justice...

A guard of honour made up of representatives from forces throughout the UK and overseas welcomed people on arrival.

In the order of service, the Prince of Wales - who is patron of the National Police Memorial Day - wrote: "Today we pay tribute to the men and women who display enormous courage and professionalism as they work to safeguard communities throughout the United Kingdom."

He said the UK had seen a number of significant attacks in the last 12 months where police officers had "saved lives" and "thwarted attacks".

Attendees heard of the dangers officers face and the sacrifices they make in the course of their duties.

More than 4,400 officers have died since modern policing began across the UK.

Constable James Dixon of Thames Valley Police was remembered by his wife Samantha and his son Parker Cameron James Dixon, who was named after his late father.

Constable Dixon died in a collision last December while working, and never got to meet his son.

Relatives of other officers killed in the line of duty represented Wales and Scotland as they too lit candles.

Prayers were offered by family members and, as the Last Post sounded, petals descended from the gallery above the hall to represent those who died.

A wreath was also laid to mark the centenary of the end of World War I and remember all those who died during the war, including officers.

Police Federation of England and Wales chairman John Apter said it was a day to remember and reflect and also celebrate the lives of those that they had all lost.

"I know from speaking to families who have lost loved ones that [the day] is significant for them, it's important," Mr Apter said.

"They know that we as a policing family we will never allow their loved ones to be forgotten."

National Police Chaplain Canon David Wilbraham said: "Together we show our respect for the commitment, dedication of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice as well as officers who day by day go out on duty willing, if necessary to give their lives to protect our society."