Parade evokes police of the past

Valletta was busier than usual yesterday as the public joined in the commemoration of the 191st anniversary of the setting up of the Police Corps.

A parade stretched all the way down Republic Street and culminated in Palace Square in an event forming part of Police Week activities. The street was lined with spectators and tourists and locals filled the stands, many wearing paper hats to brave the morning sun.

The parade, which was attended by President Eddie Fenech Adami and Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, included a Guard of Honour and a defilé by various sections of the police.

The history of the corps was brought back to life during the parade. The past was traced in the various uniforms and modes of transport, from horses and bicycles to old motorbikes complete with sidecar and other authentic vehicles including the Volkswagen Beetle and an old Ford.

Along the road, the parade evolved into modern-day police on mopeds and more heavy-duty motorbikes, cars, vans, jeeps and even boats - all polished and shining brightly in the sunlight.

The police band, the precision drill team and the mounted section, as well as police dogs, also played their part in a parade that was so complete it could have stimulated fears that it was a good day to commit a crime.

The anniversary activities started off with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph Mercieca at the police headquarters in which he encouraged high moral standards.

"Every policeman should keep in mind that the community's trust in the corps grows and strengthens depending on how much every member of the corps strives to do his duty and do it well," the Archbishop said. As the years rolled on, the job of the police was taking on an even greater dimension and becoming more intense.

Mgr Mercieca encouraged the police to have constant contact with God through prayer and not just on occasion, and underlined the importance of spiritual life in today's world.