Southend special officers walk in memory of Paula Butteriss

Paula Butteriss was an Essex Police volunteer officer in the city who recently lost her battle with cancer. During her illness, Paula was a champion of Havens hospices.

In honour of her memory, officers from Southend’s Special Constabulary walked 17 miles from Southend Central station last Sunday to raise much-needed funds for the hospices which provide specialist care and support for people living with incurable conditions and their families.

Dean, Paula’s proud husband, joined the charity walkers for every step of the 17 miles which raised £700.

Fundraising - Special officers and Paula's husband Dean on their walk (Image: Essex Police)

Volunteer Chief Inspector Samantha Wright said: “It was a fantastic team effort in the summer heat, completing the walk in memory of Paula and by way of support to Havens hospices. 

“Paula’s husband joined us for the journey, and we stopped halfway to present Dean with some items that celebrated the valuable contribution Paula made to our volunteer officer team.

“In life, Paula inspired us all with her positive can-do attitude and she continues to inspire us all, that’s why we took up this challenge. 

“It was a pleasure to be part of such a special event, on a great day.”

The special presentation was made by Special Superintendent Michelle Hill. 

She added: “Paula was a friend and valued member of our close-knit Special Constabulary team in Southend. 

“Although Paula is sadly no longer with us, her spirit and legacy continues to live on through colleagues, friends and family who came together to undertake fundraising for Havens hospices.

“A great effort by the team, with thoughts of Paula throughout, saw them complete their goal on such a warm day, raising lots of money for a worthy cause.”

Avid fundraiser - Paula Butteriss (pictured centre) (Image: Essex Police)

Paula ran marathons all over the world and raised money for charity throughout her illness. Previously, she inspired her fellow volunteer officers to walk 20 miles to raise money for a life-saving defibrillator in Priory Park.

Sharon Davies, fundraiser at Havens hospices, said: “We can’t thank Essex Police’s Southend special team enough for their heart-warming fundraising in memory of their dear colleague Paula.

“During her illness, Paula was a champion of Havens Hospices, a cause very close to her heart. 

“We’re so very grateful to accept this generous donation in her memory, which will help continue making every day count for more local people like Paula.”

To donate and help Havens hospices, visit justgiving.com/page/samantha-wright-1720694590978.