Police officer running with Olympic Flame through Flimby

A police officer who works in Carlisle is due to carry the Olympic Flame on a leg through Flimby later today (Thursday 21 June) in recognition of the work she does for the Constabulary and community.
PC Julie Dodd, 43, who lives in Houghton, Carlisle, was nominated to take part by her husband, Garry, in light of the support she provides to others through her role as North Cumbria’s Equality officer for Cumbria Constabulary, and the voluntary work she does within her local community.

Julie’s husband, Gary Dodd, said as part of his nomination: “Julie has been a Guide Leader for over 14 years, first with the 1st Houghton Guides and currently with the 1st Houghton Rainbows. She has made other contributions in our community and was part of the successful committee that won lottery funding to build a nursery in the village. She is always first to volunteer for any community initiatives and recently took part in the Big Tidy Up. Julie has been an active fundraiser and has run many half marathons to support national charities and local projects. Last year she raised over £800 for the Heathlands Project by doing the Great North Run.

This project is one Julie works closely with through her Police work. It provides life skill opportunities for adults with learning disabilities and Julie wanted to assist after the group were unsuccessful with a funding application to the People's Millions. And to top it all Julie still finds time to be a great wife and wonderful mum to our two children, Imogen (12) & Marcus(9).”

PC Julie Dodd said: “I was shocked but delighted when I found out that I had been nominated to run with the Flame.
“I have always enjoyed helping others and get a lot of satisfaction from my role as Equality officer. Policing is all about helping the community and my role allows me to work closely with minority groups to offer the support and guidance they need.
“I’m very nervous but I am looking forward to this afternoon!”
Cumbria Constabulary’s Assistant Chief Constable Michelle Skeer said: “We were delighted to learn that Julie had been nominated to take part in the Olympic Torch Relay.

“The event celebrates local heroes, and Julie has been recognised not only for her efforts during her role as Equality officer with Cumbria Constabulary, but also for her voluntary contributions to her local community.

“PC Dodd was recognised by the British Association of Women in Police last year for community engagement and she thoroughly deserves to enjoy her moment today in the once-in-a-lifetime event.
“Cumbria Constabulary is committed to working alongside other police forces and local partners to deliver another successful few days so that our communities can come and enjoy the Olympic Torch Relay as it travels through the county.”
Follow @Cumbriapolice on Twitter for up-to-date safety information relating to the Olympic Torch Relay as it travels through the county.