Bobbies in tribute run for PC; FUNDS: Annual run enters 26th year.

Byline: Helen Thomas

BOBBIES swapped their uniforms for running gear as they took part in the 26th annual race to raise money in memory of a police officer.

PC Joe O'Brien died, aged 48, in November 1982 after being hit by a car while directing traf- fic at a charity race in Coventry.

Ever since, teams of of- ficers from across the West Midlands, have taken part in a threemile race in his memor y.

As well as being a beat bobby Joe was also a keen athlete and yesterday about 100 people lined up in Coundon Hall Park in his memor y.

Sgt Pete Jones, of Little Park Street police station, who worked with Joe and has taken part in the memorial run since it began, said: "He was a great local bobby and was well-respected by all the community.

He put a lot of energy into athletics and a lot of energy into policing.

"A road in Coventry was named after him and schools run in his name. We do this run in his memory but also use it to raise money for the Smile Fund, a charity at University Hospital which pays for treats and toys for children who are ill." He said he was always impressed how many police officers and other guests show up each year for the race and joked he always puts pressure on the younger bobbies to get involved.

"I never dreamed it would go this far but I'm confident it will continue.

Joe was a very modest person and he would be amazed that he'd been remembered for so long. "He was what we would now call a neighbourhood officer. He was very well-respected and trusted by the community.

The standards he employed then are what we strive to do now." After yesterday's race the runners attended a presentation at Hawkes Mill Sports Club where trophies for the winning teams, individuals and veterans were awarded.

Joe was born in County Westmeath, Ireland, and joined what was Coventry City Police in 1962, before it became part of the West Midlands force in 1974. He was a member of the Police Athletics Team and regularly represented Warwickshire and West Midlands Police throughout his career. He was also a member of the Coventry Godiva Walking Team..