A Final Farewell: The Funeral of PC Rosie Prior

A Life of Service and Sacrifice

Hundreds of people are expected to gather in York on Thursday to honor the life of PC Rosie Prior, a dedicated police officer who tragically lost her life while selflessly helping others. The 45-year-old officer, who was also a mother, died after being struck by a lorry on the A19 near Thirsk, North Yorkshire, last month. PC Prior had stopped to assist at the scene of a road collision when the devastating incident occurred. Alongside her, Ryan Welford, 41, from Knaresborough, who had been involved in the initial collision, also lost his life. A teenage boy, a passenger in Mr. Welford’s car, was seriously injured in the accident. PC Prior’s death has sent shockwaves through her community and the broader police family, who are now coming together to pay their respects to a woman who embodied the spirit of public service.

A Ceremonial Tribute to a Fallen Hero

A full ceremonial police funeral will be held for PC Rosie Prior at York Minster, one of the most historic and iconic cathedrals in the UK. The service is expected to draw around 800 mourners, including representatives from police forces across the country. The procession will be led by a police piper and four police horses, reflecting the deep respect and tradition often associated with police funerals. As the cortege makes its way through the streets of York, officers from North Yorkshire Police will line the approach to the Minster, accompanied by flag bearers from every police force in the UK. This solemn display of unity and solidarity will serve as a poignant reminder of the tight-knit nature of the policing community and its collective grief over the loss of one of its own.

A Guard of Honour and a Celebration of Life

Outside York Minster, a guard of honour will be formed by officers from North Yorkshire Police, paying their final respects to PC Prior. The ceremony will not only mourn her passing but also celebrate her life, her dedication to her work, and the profound impact she had on those around her. PC Prior’s colleagues and superiors have spoken highly of her, with North Yorkshire Police’s Chief Constable, Tim Forber, describing her as someone whose instinct to help others was "part of her DNA." He praised her as a shining example of the values of British policing, adding that she "epitomised the very best of North Yorkshire Police."

A Family’s Grief and a Community’s Support

The outpouring of support for PC Rosie Prior’s family has been immense. Her husband, Chris, has spoken publicly about the overwhelming kindness and solidarity they have received during this incredibly difficult time. In a statement, he thanked North Yorkshire Police, the Police Federation, and their Family Support Officers for their unwavering assistance. He also expressed gratitude to friends, neighbors, and colleagues, saying, "The amount of support we have received… proves that even in the darkest of times, the world does have amazing people in it." However, he has respectfully asked the media to allow him and their children space to grieve and rebuild their lives, noting the "huge Rosie void" left behind. The family has made it clear that they will not be making further public comments at this time.

A Legacy of Compassion and Duty

PC Rosie Prior, who was born in Leeds and joined North Yorkshire Police in 2022, was a relatively new recruit but quickly made a lasting impression on her colleagues and the communities she served. Her selfless act on the day of her death was characteristic of her dedication to helping others, even when off-duty. While the investigation into the incident continues, with the 65-year-old lorry driver from Berwick-upon-Tweed having been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and later released under investigation, the focus for now remains on celebrating PC Prior’s life and the values she stood for. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on through the countless lives she touched and the lessons she taught about compassion, duty, and the importance of standing up for others.

A Community United in Grief and Gratitude

As the city of York prepares to bid farewell to PC Rosie Prior, the occasion will serve as a powerful reminder of the risks and sacrifices faced by those in uniform. The presence of so many police officers from across the UK at her funeral not only honors her memory but also underscores the strength and solidarity of the policing family. For PC Prior’s loved ones, colleagues, and the wider community, this moment is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible life she led and the difference she made. While her loss will be deeply felt, her story will continue to inspire others to follow in her footsteps, embodying the selflessness and courage that defined her life. Rest in peace, PC Rosie Prior. Your service will never be forgotten.