Thin Blue Line UK has received a generous £200 donation made in memory of former North Yorkshire Police officer Gilbert Turnbull, following his recent passing and funeral.

Gilbert served with North Yorkshire Police for three decades and remained deeply connected to the policing community long after his retirement 35 years ago. His family fondly recalled how he stayed active through his local NARPO branch, part of the National Association of Retired Police Officers, which plays a crucial role in supporting former officers and staff across the UK.

Iain, Gilbert’s son, said his father’s policing spirit never faded “Even though he’d been retired for 35 years, Dad was always a policeman at heart. He kept in touch with the job through his local NARPO branch and through family still serving. It was my sister, Catherine, who suggested supporting Thin Blue Line UK. She’s served 30 years with Durham Constabulary and previously raised money in memory of her husband, who also completed 30 years’ service before sadly passing away shortly after retirement. I remember she even took part in one of your charity walks in the Lake District a couple of years ago”.

The National Association of Retired Police Officers (NARPO) is crucial for retired police officers and staff in the UK, acting as a dedicated, rank-free, and influential advocate for their rights, welfare, and pensions. With over 93,000 members, NARPO helps bridge the gap between a high‑paced policing career and a secure, active retirement. This commitment to care, compassion, and ongoing connection reflects the wider closeness of the policing family, the thin blue line that endures far beyond active service.

Bev, a Trustee of Thin Blue Line UK, said the charity is honoured to receive such a meaningful tribute “Remembering a loved one by supporting Thin Blue Line UK is a powerful way to celebrate their life and values. Whether through a funeral collection, an online tribute page, or a gift in your Will, these acts of kindness truly help us continue our vital work supporting police officers across the UK. We feel deeply honoured that Gilbert and his family chose our charity to receive such a special donation made in Gilbert's memory and understand how difficult this time can be for families. To help, we offer guidance on thoughtful ways to give in remembrance, including how to leave a gift in your Will, so that a loved one’s legacy can continue to make a difference”.

Thin Blue Line UK is deeply grateful to the Turnbull family for not only this incredible personal gift, but also to their longstanding and heartfelt support. Their commitment to helping officers across the UK with their mental health and wellbeing enables the charity to fund vital initiatives for both serving and retired personnel, ensuring support is available whenever it is needed most. The charity is honoured that this cause was so close to Gilbert’s heart, and sees this donation as a reflection of the strong, enduring bonds that unite the policing community throughout service, retirement, and beyond.

If you would like to honour the memory of someone special, or create a lasting tribute of your own, you can explore the different ways to give in remembrance through Thin Blue Line UK. Your gesture, whether large or small, helps continue the legacy of those who served and ensures vital support reaches officers and their families when they need it most. To find out more, please click HERE.