A SPECIAL service will be held in Winchester this month to remember all those who have died in a collision on the roads of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

A special service will be held in Winchester this month to remember all those who have died in a collision on the roads of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

On Sunday, November 15, family and friends of those lost in a collision will gather to commemorate their lives at Christ Church, at a service arranged by officers from Hampshire Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit.

Those gathering will be joined by Chief Constable Andy Marsh, senior management from each of the emergency services, the High Sheriff of Hampshire, the Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire and the Mayor of Winchester.

The service will be led by Canon David Wilbraham, force chaplain of Thames Valley Police who also provides chaplaincy to the Joint Operations Unit.

Police officers, fire and rescue workers and ambulance technicians will give readings and prayers during the service. Family members will be invited to take part in an Act of Commemoration led by Canon Wilbraham.

Chief Constable Andy Marsh said: “I cannot even begin to imagine the impact that losing a loved one on the roads must have on those left behind. This memorial service provides an important opportunity for those united by loss to gather and remember their loved one.

“It also provides a chance to those in the emergency services who respond to collisions and deal with their impact during the course of their duties to join with the families and take the time to pause and remember. I am deeply honoured to be able to attend on behalf of the force.”

Canon Wilbraham said: “The third Sunday of November is set aside by the United Nations as a special day of remembrance for victims of road death.

“However, while clearly a global issue, the death of someone on the roads is intensely personal and impacts greatly on their families and friends. This service provides a safe, supportive place for those affected to come together to remember and commemorate their individual loss.

“For some, this service has become an annual event; we welcome them and extend the invitation to others whose lives have been affected by death on the roads to join us.”

The service is open to all family members and friends of victims of road traffic collisions. Anyone who has been affected by such a bereavement, is welcome to join the service.

If you would like to attend, and would like the name of your loved one read out at the service, contact Sergeant Gabe Snuggs via e-mail at [email protected]