Hundreds of people are expected to gather in York on Thursday to pay their respects at the funeral of PC Rosie Prior, an off-duty police officer who tragically lost her life while selflessly attempting to assist others. PC Prior, a 45-year-old mother and dedicated officer with North Yorkshire Police, died last month after being struck by a lorry on the A19 near Thirsk. Her death has sent shockwaves through the community and the police force, as colleagues and family remember her bravery, kindness, and unwavering commitment to helping others. Representatives from police forces across the UK will attend the full ceremonial police funeral at York Minster, a testament to the high esteem in which she was held by her peers.
PC Rosie Prior’s final act of kindness was sadly the one that cost her her life. On the day of the incident, she had come across a road collision and, without hesitation, stopped to help. She was standing on the verge of the road when a lorry collided with her and two others. Ryan Welford, a 41-year-old man from Knaresborough, who had been involved in the initial collision, also tragically died at the scene. A teenage boy, who was a passenger in Mr. Welford’s car, survived but sustained serious injuries. PC Prior’s selfless actions, even while off-duty, embody the spirit of public service and compassion that defined her life and career.
The funeral service, which will take place at York Minster, promises to be a poignant and dignified tribute to PC Prior’s life and legacy. Around 800 people are expected to attend, including police officers from across the UK, who will gather to honor her memory and pay their respects. The ceremony will feature a guard of honor outside the Minster, while a police piper and four police horses will lead the cortege through the streets of York. The approach to the historic cathedral will be lined by officers from North Yorkshire Police and flag bearers representing every police force in the country, creating a powerful visual reminder of the solidarity and respect within the policing community.
In a heartfelt statement, PC Prior’s husband, Chris, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support the family has received during this incredibly difficult time. He praised the North Yorkshire Police force and the Police Federation, as well as the Family Support Officers, for their kindness and assistance. “The amount of support we have received from family, friends, neighbours, work colleagues, and Rosie’s work colleagues proves that even in the darkest of times, the world does have amazing people in it,” he said. However, Chris also respectfully asked for privacy as the family navigates their grief and begins the process of rebuilding their lives without Rosie. “We will have a huge Rosie void in it,” he said, adding that they would not be making any further public comments.
PC Rosie Prior, who was born in Leeds, joined North Yorkshire Police in 2022 and quickly became a beloved and respected member of the force. Her colleagues and superiors have described her as someone who “epitomized the very best of British policing” and whose commitment to helping others was woven into the very fabric of her being. Speaking shortly after her death, North Yorkshire Police’s Chief Constable, Tim Forber, said, “Helping others was part of her DNA.” He added, “She epitomized the very best of British policing and the values of North Yorkshire Police.” Her dedication to her work and her community was evident in everything she did, from her professional duties to her everyday acts of kindness.
The investigation into the tragedy is ongoing. The driver of the lorry involved in the collision, a 65-year-old man from Berwick-upon-Tweed, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has since been released under investigation while police continue to gather evidence. As the community comes together to mourn PC Rosie Prior and celebrate her life, her legacy as a devoted officer, loving mother, and selfless individual will undoubtedly live on. Her story has touched the hearts of many, reminding us all of the profound difference one person can make in the lives of others.
