Tunbridge Wells Remembers

Tunbridge Wells Remembers

Dear Residents 

Today, Kent Police joined residents, veterans, service personnel, councillors, and community groups in paying their respects at the Southborough Remembrance Day service.

The event was exceptionally well attended, demonstrating the continued strength of feeling within our community for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Remembrance remains an important opportunity for us all to reflect on the courage, dedication and selflessness of those who served, while also recognising the sacrifices made by their families and loved ones.

This year's service was particularly poignant for two Kent Police officers who attended and will both retire in March 2027 following nearly 27 years of dedicated service.

PC Richie Hall and Inspector Neil Ready joined Kent Police together on 19 June 2000 and will both retire on 31 March 2027.

PC Hall spent two years as a response officer at Tonbridge before joining the Tactical Team in 2002, later moving to the Neighbourhood Task Team in 2009 and the Divisional Support Unit in 2011.

Since 2013 he has served within Community Policing and subsequently became a Public Order Instructor. Throughout his career he has maintained strong links with the Tonbridge area and is proud to call Southborough home. 

He is also qualified as a Public Order Instructor, Medic Instructor, Method of Entry (MOE) Instructor and since 2024 has served as a Public Order Public Safety Advisor.

Inspector Ready's career has seen him serve across East, West and North Kent, as well as within Tactical Operations, Force Headquarters and the Force Control Room. He spent five years as an Authorised Firearms Officer and has extensive experience in public order policing, bringing a wealth of operational expertise to a variety of roles throughout the force.

Both officers reflected on how important acts of remembrance are, not only to honour those who gave their lives in conflict, but also to ensure future generations understand the sacrifices made in securing the freedoms we enjoy today.

As a community, we are grateful for the service given by veterans, members of the Armed Forces and all those who continue to protect and serve others. 

We also recognise the dedication of officers such as PC Richie Hall and Inspector Neil Ready, whose combined service to the people of Kent spans more than five decades.

Lest We Forget