The NSW Police Mounted Unit yesterday completed an extra special operation – travelling to Newcastle to meet a woman named Rita Meredith.
When Rita was in her early 20’s she was a police officer in the United Kingdom.
After two years of service, she decided to try the Mounted Police and went on to become the first female Mounted Police Officer in the UK – even meeting the Queen Mother at one point in her trailblazing career.
“Rita Meredith nee Browning is currently quite unwell and is not expected to return home,” the NSW Police Mounted Unit said in a statement.
“She is spending her days in hospice care in Newcastle.
“Her main wish before she passed was to smell or see a horse for one more time. Rita’s friend contacted us to grant Rita’s last wish.”
Mounted Police travelled to Newcastle yesterday to see Rita and make what could be her last wish in life come true.
“Hollywood and Don made Rita’s day. There were plenty of tears shed and beautiful memories made.”
Rita’s daughter-in-law, Emily Sykes wrote a note of thanks to the Mounted Unit on Facebook today.
“Her main wish before she passed was to smell/see a horse for one more time,” said Emily.
“She has done plenty of other extraordinary things in her life, but these days are always looked back at fondly and some of the best she recalls.”
She said the arrival police officers Graham and Nicole yesterday with the “very handsome” horses ‘Hollywood’ and ‘Don’ made Rita’s day.
“They were amazingly patient, answered all our questions and let Rita and the rest of us pat them and feed them apples,” Emily said.
“There were plenty of tears shed and beautiful memories made.
“I cannot thank the NSW Police for making this happen. You have made this lovely ladies wish come true and did it with such professionalism, respect and grace.”
Certainly a day that won’t be forgotten – well done to the NSW Police Mounted Unit on this wonderful act of kindness.
