The Royal Anguilla Police Force observed its annual Police Week from January 26th to February 1st, marking its 48th anniversary. As part of this celebration, the Force hosted its customary Senior Citizens luncheon on Thursday, January 30th, at Police Headquarters in The Valley.
The ambiance was one of lively social interaction among the elderly, as well as those who were not so old, but who love coming to share the joys at the event each year. All definitely appreciated the opportunity for fun and laughter in an atmosphere that was charged with “oldie-goldie” love songs and familiar calypso music — vibes that brought back memories of yesteryear.
The lunch tables are usually served by ALHCS’s 6th Form students, but this year the guests had the honour of being served by members of the Bermuda Police Service who were visiting the island primarily to participate in the inaugural Commissioner’s Cup Football games — a first for Police Week.
In his annual address to the seniors, Police Commissioner, Paul Morrison, said: “We heartily welcome all of you another year to share lunch with us. Many of you have seen Anguilla change from a sleepy country to a vibrant place that attracts tourists as our guests but, unfortunately, alongside of that there is a certain degree of crime.
“However, I pledge to you, as I have pledged every year, that the Royal Anguilla Police Force is here to serve you, to respect your rights, and to deal with crime in order that you are kept safe. On behalf of the RAPF, it is my pleasure to have you here today. Please enjoy the food and all the refreshments that we have to offer. May God bless you, God bless the Royal Anguilla Police Force, and God bless Anguilla.”
A few guests spoke to The Anguillan from their table. Tr. Janice Hodge mentioned: “Well, I have been coming to the police lunch for as long as I can remember and it is so good. I get to meet many of my older friends and acquaintances that I have not seen for a while. It’s a great place to come to socialize and reminisce the past.”
Another guest, Mr. James “Freddie” Hughes, observed: “This is the way that the police and the public should interact together. Events like these help to inspire the public to help the police do their job of keeping order in the country. A lunch like this every year motivates us to be close partners of the police.”
Yet another guest, Mrs. Verna Bryan, took the opportunity to say: “Congratulations to the Royal Anguilla Police Force for celebrating its 48th year. I have been coming to lunch here for many years now, and we are very grateful for how they treat us each year.”
Mrs. Olive Hodge was delighted to express her congratulations as well: “I wish to extend congratulations to our police for 48 years. It is always a pleasure for me to mingle with the older folk. This luncheon gives us a chance to meet with our old friends each year. It is good that the police always remember us. I am glad that the seniors are not forgotten.”
Then, Mr. Clive Smith spoke: “It is great for us to come together like this every year for lunch. We are having a great time here. Praise the Lord! I pray that God will continue bless Anguilla through the efforts of our Police Force. We are proud of them!”
The prime organizer of the luncheon was WPC 37 Ms. Sherrie Brooks. She said that it was her great delight every year to mobilize her willing and helpful team to pull off this package of entertainment for the seniors. She thanked all of her fellow officers who participated. By the same token, she was grateful to the participating officers from the Bermuda Police Service for the role they played.
In the words of Ms. Brooks, herself, she noted: “I would also like to thank our secrete contributors. We are indeed grateful to you for your donations every year. You help to make our seniors overwhelmed with joy, as usual. Thanks also to the Commissioner of Police, Paul Morison, who always happily involves himself. We are grateful as well to Deputy Forbes, and other ranked officers, who came on board to make the event another great success.”
On behalf of the RAPF, Ms. Brooks wished, in addition, to express special thanks the prime sponsors of this year’s lunch which included: JARD Holidays LTD; DLG Engineering; Lloyds aviation Services; Tropical Distributors Ashley & Sons Grocery Store; Mingz Super Market; Paramount Pharmacy; English Rose; Madeariman Beach Club; Dolce Vita Restaurant; The Big Store; Hungry’s; Anglec and Sharpies Restaurant.
– Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan
