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More than 250 officers and support staff will be cycling for 180-miles.

A previous ride

Officers from across the country are preparing for a charity cycle ride in memory of police officers who have died in the line of duty.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick will give a contingent a send-off as they embark on the Police Unity Tour on Friday.

Many will start the journey to the Police Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire by laying flowers in memory of fallen hero PC Keith Palmer in Westminster.

The ride will then carry on to the National Police Memorial on the Mall where floral tributes will be laid.

Riders will be joined by the families of the fallen officers, law enforcement officials from the USA as well as crew members.

Cyclists will ride approximately 180 miles over three days to the National Arboretum, for a special ceremony on Sunday.

Comm Dick said: "This is an important event in the police calendar and I am honoured to be involved. This year will be particularly poignant as we remember PC Keith Palmer who was killed in the Westminster Bridge terrorist attack.

“Remembering all of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty reminds us of the dangers police officers face when doing their jobs and ensures those who have paid the ultimate price are not forgotten.”

Riders all cycle for an individual officer depicted on an engraved bracelet, which at the conclusion of the ride they will have the opportunity to present to that officer’s family.

The Police Unity Tour raises money for the charity UK Care of Police Survivors (UKCOPS), which directly supports the families and loved ones of officers killed in the line of duty.

Watch the video below to see footage and interviews from the end of the 2015 edition of the tour.

View on Police Oracle