Federation helps fund memorial bench installed in honour of PC

A memorial bench has been installed in honour of South Wales Police Federation member PC Jeremy Veck after the branch’s Group Insurance Scheme offered to pay for the project. 

Friends and colleagues of PC Veck initially raised money to buy the bench in honour of the dog handler, who died suddenly in May last year. 

However, after being approached to help fund the last bit of money needed to cover the cost of the bench, the Group Insurance Scheme Trustees released enough money to pay for it all. This meant that the freed-up funds already raised by PC Veck’s colleagues are now being put towards vouchers for his newly-born granddaughter. 

South Wales Police Federation chair Steve Treharne, who was instrumental in securing the funds, said: “Having been approached by PC Veck’s former colleague, PS Gareth Phillips, to speak to trustees at the Group Insurance Scheme, I was extremely pleased to hear that they were keen to pay entirely for the bench. 

“PC Veck’s death was a shock to us all and he continues to be missed by everyone here at South Wales Police Federation. Having been part of the Force for more than 20 years, he was an integral part of our police family. 

“It was clear his former colleagues and members of the Federation wanted to do something to show his family just how much he meant to them. I’m pleased I was able to help make it happen. 

“It’s great that the excess funds that had already been raised will now benefit PC Veck’s granddaughter. I think it’s quite special that his colleagues and friends have been able to gift her vouchers, in his memory.” 

The bench has been placed on the Millenium Coastal Path, which looks out over the Loughor Estuary, not far from the family home where PC Veck grew up. 

It was installed earlier this year in April and PC Veck’s family and friends have visited the bench numerous times.

“A memorial bench is a brilliant way for his colleagues, friends and family to honour him. I hope it becomes a special place where those that knew him can visit if they want to remember him and reflect on their memories of times with him,” added Steve.