Commencing every late January, the Royal Anguilla Police Force celebrates its historial beginning with a routine week of activities considered to be a fitting and important tribute to its formation and development.
The Force, then in its infancy, took over responsibility for law and order in January 1972 from the then London Metropolitan Police who were assigned to the island following the 1969 British Invasion.
This year, the 44th Anniversary of the Royal Anguilla Police Force, will be celebrated from Sunday January 24 to Saturday January 30. The theme, based on the Force’s interaction with the people of Anguilla, is: “Working with you, working for you, Anguilla community we are committed to you”. The celebration, to be chaired by Inspector Marva Brooks, will begin with a divive service and parade at the Life Impact Center at West End where the presiding Minister is Pastor Lucien MacDonna.
According to the programme brochure, the church service and parade will be followed by the Commissioner of Police Domino Tournament at Police Headquarters in The Valley and a beach event at Sandy Ground with the visiting St. Maarten [VKS] Police. On Sunday evening, Governor Christina Scott, who has responsibility for the Police will deliver a radio address.
The rest of the programme will be as follows:
Monday, January 25: a lecture by Leader of the Opposition, Ms Palmavon Webster; a rally by the Police; a Spelling B Competition at the Orealia Kelly Primary School; and a radio address by Commissioner of Police, Mr. Paul Morrison.
Tuesday, January 26: Community projects by the Police and the Anguillian Community; and a Gospel Concert at the Kingdom Citizen Church.
Wednesday, January 27: a continuation of Police and Community projects; a Community Basketball Competition involving police and teams from Island Harbour, North Hill and The Valley.
Thursday, January 28: the Senior Citizens Luncheon on the grounds of Police Headquarters; and a Pool Competition at the Sports Bar in The Valley.
Friday, January 29: Bingo with a jackpot of US$4,400 on the grounds of Police Headquarters.
Saturday, January 30: a walk from Police Headquarters; a Kiddies’ Jamboree at the same location; and the Police Dinner & Ball at Italia Restaurant at CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa.
A raffle is also part of the programme.