New home for memorial bench to PC killed in crash

A memorial bench dedicated to a police officer who died on duty 30 years ago has been installed at a South Yorkshire police station.

PC Gina Rutherford, who was based at Goldthorpe police station in Barnsley, died when her car skidded on ice and crashed into the River Dearne in February 1994.

The bench was originally donated to Goldthorpe Library but was moved to Wombwell Police Station while work is carried out at the library.

Barnsley District Commander, Ch Supt Simon Wanless, said it was a wonderful addition to the station following its recent refurbishment.

"Many of our staff here at Barnsley remember PC Rutherford fondly, and I am thrilled the bench has now found a new home where the memorial stone for her is also kept, so her memory will live on," he said.

"Plans are also in place to create a wellbeing space outside of the station which officers and staff can use in the spring and summer months, so this is a very fitting place for the bench to be situated 30 years after PC Rutherford passed away."

According to the Police Remembrance Trust, PC Rutherford was 25 years old when she drowned in her patrol car.

Police said Councillor Martin Morrell had attempted to contact PC Rutherford's family to inform them of the work taking place at the library but they were based outside of the UK.

Mr Morrell and police staff decided the bench should move to Wombwell, to coincide with the police station's recent refurbishment.

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