How Refreshing

As a retired police officer I find it quite natural to see the negatives in people and places. Having served in West Yorkshire for over thirty years and at every level of policing, there's nothing I haven't seen, and as I've said before, there is no news story or tragedy, no matter how shocking that will surprise me. I have truly seen every possible aspect of human nature. Unsurprisingly, as a police officer it is inevitable that it's more often than not the darker side of human nature with which we tend to deal on a daily basis. And as such, a rather pessimistic view becomes natural.
I like to stay abreast of news from my old stomping ground, something which is easier now than ever before thanks to the invaluable world wide web! Most newsworthy stories, whether at local or national level, will involve some sort of police involvement. As an ex officer I tend to read with my critical eye, not just with regard to policing techniques, but also from a journalistic point of view-after all, balance is only fair, regardless of what kind of severity we may be dealing with.
From time to time a region will have the opportunity to shine when the media spotlight falls upon it, and the world of sport is a wonderful arena from which to highlight the very best of which a community has to offer. This week was the turn of Yorkshire.
The worlds media descended to document the Tour de France Grand Depart. And I have to say, how delightfully refreshing it was to pick up the newspapers and read nothing but positives about the county and its warm, welcoming people-over a million of which lined the streets of West Yorkshire for phase one on the opening day. Images of stunning colour adorned the front and back pages of every regional paper, television news captured a wonderful spectacle and the entire world looked on. It was the region's chance to shine-and shine it certainly did!
It goes without saying that these things do not simply come together by accident. From an organisational standpoint, the logistics are quite mindblowing. And it has to be said, the emergency services play an integral, indeed a vital part when it comes to planning-and performing on the day. Public safety is at the heart of everything we do.Ensuring the wellbeing of over a million people in relatively close proximity is an aspect of policing which is more often than not overlooked when it comes to the public and their perceptions of the work we do. But this in itself is a sign that all of those unassuming officers have carried out their every duty in the correct manner and all for the sole purpose of protecting the public.
With all this in mind it's only right to extend a huge congratulations to the organisers of this wonderful event as well as the welcoming people of Yorkshire whose contribution ensured a truly unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
And I obviously cannot sum up without paying my own respects to my former colleagues at West yorkshire police. I looked on from afar with an enormous sense of pride and satisfaction, and although it was only how it should be, it was in every aspect a case of mission accomplished.
Here's a look at how local written press are covering the event... I do believe a collective pat on the back is in order..
Tour de France Grand Depart, Telegraph and Argus.