On a cool and windy day last month, some 50 blind people arrived to a warm welcome at the Police College in Aberdeen, to start a tour arranged for them by the Hong Kong Branch of the Royal Over-Seas League (ROSL). This was the second such visit to the Police College, arranged for the Hong Kong Federation of the Blind by ROSL.

The first stop on the Police College tour was to a display of police equipment and weapons. Officers explained their uses and helped the visitors try their hands on police riot shields, don riot squad helmets, and pose for photos holding weapons. This hands-on exhibition proved very interesting to the blind visitors.

The visitors then moved to a nearby theatre for a concert by the Police Band. The music included many Chinese and Western favourites, and some numbers were accompanied by enthusiastic clapping of the beat by the audience.

The bagpipers, in impressive traditional uniform including tartan trews, were as popular as ever. This concert was greatly enjoyed by this special audience, and ended with a rousing rendition of "Now's the Time to Say Goodbye".

The Federation members were thrilled as the police musicians passed around and explained their instruments. Many curious hands had a go at playing everything from a big base drum to a tuba, though few of the visitors could get the bagpipes going melodically!

All in all, thanks to the arrangements made by the Police College and the Police Band, the visitors had a very enjoyable day out, and one they will long remember with pleasure.

ROSL Hong Kong has thanked the Commissioner and his staff for this great support to the blind community of Hong Kong.

This hands-on exhibition proves very interesting to the Federation members

The Federation members greatly enjoy the Police Band's performance

Officer helps a Federation member get a feel of the Police Band's instruments