National recognition for murdered RUC officers

National recognition for murdered RUC officers

9 July 2025

THE families of two murdered Downpatrick police officers are to receive national recognition with the award of an Elizabeth Emblem.

RUC officers Reserve Constable James Ferguson and Inspector Martin Vance were killed by the IRA in 1983 and 1985 respectively.

Constable Ferguson died while on patrol in the Meadowlands area in the town alongside colleague Billy Finlay — who was also murdered — on October 6, 1983.

Inspector Vance died after he arrived at his home outside the town on August 31 1985, a short time after leaving Downpatrick Golf Club.

Their families are among a group of 34 from Northern Ireland whose loved ones died in the line of duty to receive the award which has been approved by King Charles.

The Elizabeth Emblem is awarded to families of public servants who died with the former RUC officers among a group of 106 police officers, firefighters, overseas workers and other public servants from across the UK who died in service and have been recognised with the Elizabeth Emblem.

The Emblem recognises the sacrifices made by public servants who have lost their lives as a result of their duty.

It is the civilian equivalent of the Elizabeth Cross, which recognises members of the UK Armed Forces who died in action or as a result of a terrorist attack. 

Established last year, it is only the second ever list of Elizabeth Emblem recipients to be published. The next of kin are awarded the national form of recognition.

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Pat McFadden, said an “enduring debt” was owed to the public servants who give their lives to protect others.

He said the Elizabeth Emblem was also a “reminder not just of the ultimate price their loved ones have paid in service of our communities, it is a lasting symbol of our national gratitude for their incredible sacrifice”.

The design of the Emblem incorporates a rosemary wreath, a traditional symbol of remembrance, which surrounds the Tudor Crown. 

It is inscribed with ‘For A Life Given In Service’ and has the name of the person for whom it is in memoriam inscribed on the reverse of the Emblem. It will include a pin to allow the award to be worn on clothing by the next of kin of the deceased.

Families and next of kin of those who have died in public service are encouraged to apply for an Elizabeth Emblem via gov.uk.