THE lives of those lost on the roads of Hampshire will be commemorated at a special ceremony later this month.

The Joint Operations Roads Policing Unit will be holding the memorial service to support the family and friends of those who have died as a result of collisions on our roads.

The dedicated ceremony will be held to mark the United Nations Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims and it is believed that our Joint Operations Unit is unique in honouring the day in such a way.

During the service, local dignitaries, police officers and colleagues from the ambulance and fire services will join members of the public in an Act of Commemoration.

Families who attended last year’s service said: “We felt cared for and we welcomed the ways in which we were encouraged to take an active part in the service.”

“Although heart-breaking, it was an honour to be among such brave people and the dedicated emergency services.”

It will take place at Christ Church, Christchurch Road, Winchester, at 2.30pm on Sunday, November 18, giving families the chance to remember their loved ones.

In Hampshire in 2017, 42 people were killed and 970 people were seriously injured on the roads.

Hampshire Chief Constable Olivia Pinkney added: “It is so important to have this opportunity to remember those affected by death and serious injury on our roads. For those directly affected and their family and friends.

“And of course, to pay tribute to our emergency services whose courage and professionalism in dealing with these extremely traumatic events is just exceptional.

“As a police service, as well as dealing with the aftermath of such events, we are always continually working hard to promote road safety.

“This is a good opportunity to recognise the hard work and dedication of the officers and staff involved, as well as the work we do in partnership with other agencies and organisations.

“We welcome anyone who has been affected by the loss of someone on our roads to join us for this very moving ceremony.”