Volunteer police officers are set to embark on a 17-mile fundraising walk in memory of their much-loved colleague who lost her battle with cancer.

Essex Police’s Southend Special Constables, who are volunteer police officers with the same police powers, uniforms and equipment as regular officers, will be taking part in the walk in memory of Paula Butteriss.

The walk will bring together family, friends and colleagues who will complete the hike starting and ending at Southend central via Benfleet, next Sunday.

Paula's husband Dean will be joining the Specials in their fundraising efforts. He said: "Paula was amazingly proud to serve in Essex Police as a volunteer police officer, and we’re just as proud of her for doing so."

Paula joined Essex Police in April 2022 and served as a special constable as part of the Southend policing team. The force says she was always happy to challenge herself, making a first arrest on only her third shift. 

She was also an avid runner and loved to challenge herself and others, leading a walk with the volunteer police officers last year to raise funds used for a new defibrillator in Priory Park.

Special Chief Inspector Samantha Wright who has set up a Just Giving page to raise funds for Haven Hospice, explains: “Paula loved running, ran marathons all over the world, supported the Finish Line Fund and throughout her illness, the charity became the Southend Special team's fundraising focus. 

“Paula inspired us to walk 20 miles to raise money for a defibrillator for use in Priory Park.

“As she was always there to support us, we wanted to do something to recognise Paula and her charity work, so we’re taking part in a walk to raise much needed funds for Havens Hospices.”

Havens supports those living with incurable conditions, to ensure every day counts. For information about how you can donate, visit justgiving.com/page/samantha-wright-1720694590978.