A Memorable Day at Lippitts Hill for Ellis

A 24 year old man named Ellis recently enjoyed a truly unforgettable experience at Lippitts Hill, where he was given a special visit to the NPAS (National Police Air Service) base. The day was made even more remarkable with a visit from the police dog unit, creating lasting memories for Ellis and his family.

Ellis’ visit was made possible thanks to the kindness and dedication of several officers and staff. Special thanks go to Debbie Thompson from the Air Support Unit (ASU) and Stephen McDarby from Dog Support Unit (DSU), who worked hard to organise the day. Their efforts were supported by Cranham Safer Neighbourhood Team, demonstrating the strong community spirit within policing.

Throughout his life, Ellis has faced significant challenges, having undergone a number of serious surgeries. Despite this, he has shown incredible resilience, always coming through with a smile and a determination that has inspired those around him. His love for policing has been a constant source of motivation, and this visit was particularly meaningful given that his older sister is also a serving police officer in the Met.

The idea for the day began when Ellis’ uncle reached out to Sergeant Sehmby from Cranham SNT to ask if there could be some kind of policing input for Ellis. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and plans soon came together to create a day Ellis would never forget.

Accompanied by PC Steve Payne, Ellis attended the visit alongside his mum and sister. From the moment he arrived, it was clear that this would be a special experience. Ellis had the opportunity to meet members of the NPAS crew, learning about their vital role in supporting policing operations from the air. One of the highlights of the day was being able to sit inside the police helicopter — an experience that left him both excited and inspired.

The visit didn’t stop there. The arrival of the police dog unit added another layer of excitement, giving Ellis the chance to meet the highly trained dog, Dora and her handler up close. He even had the opportunity to try on parts of the police uniform, making him feel like part of the team for the day.

The smiles, laughter, and enthusiasm shared throughout the visit were a testament to the success of the day. For Ellis, it was more than just a trip — it was a chance to connect with something he is passionate about and to experience first-hand the work of the police service he admires so much.

This special day would not have been possible without the collaboration and generosity of all those involved. It stands as a wonderful example of how policing can make a positive difference in the community, bringing joy and inspiration to those who need it most.