The Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Rev Dr Robin Eames, conveyed a message of tribute on behalf of the Prince of Wales at the National Police Memorial Day Service held last weekend.

The service paid tribute to all police officers who have died while on duty and Dr Eames delivered the message on behalf of Prince Charles who was unable to attend the event.

The message from the Prince told the 2,000 gathered: "It is a matter of great pride for me that I was invited to become Patron of the National Police Memorial Day and I only wish that I could be with you today to salute the remarkable heroism of police officers everywhere and, in particular, to remember those who have given their lives in the line of duty.

"This day of commemoration is a way for the nation to recognize the best of all human qualities - selfless and devoted courage - and the example and valour of those officers who died on duty should act as an inspiration to us all."

Archbishop Eames gave his own stirring tribute at the service, held in the Waterfront Hall, Belfast. He said that in Northern Ireland the memories can be negative.

He added: "They can be something else. They can be the springboard for hope, gratitude and vision, and for moving on, but society cannot be allowed to move on, unaffected by the tragedies we recall at this moment.

"There were lives lost in the service of and protection of ordinary, decent life. There must never be a 'taking for granted'. There must never be a failure to thank God for such public service."

The service was also joined by the widower of murdered West Yorkshire police officer Sharon Beshenivsky who was shot dead while answering an alarm at a Bradford travel agency last November.

"Today isn't just about Sharon and it is not just about the thousands of officers who have died before her. It is also about those who put their lives on the line every day," said Paul Beshenivsky.

The service was opened by Northern Ireland Security Minister Paul Goggins who paid tribute to those police officers who had "paid the ultimate sacrifice for their community".