Force raises more than $5.5 million for charity
The 2004 Police Community Carnival has so far raised $5.56 million for charity, a figure which is expected to rise with the continued sale of "Carnival Cops" within the Force ahead of Christmas.
Besides raising funds for The Community Chest, the two-day Carnival held on November 20 and 21, attracted over 30,000 people who clearly enjoyed the shows and around 60 static displays featuring a wide variety of Police work.
Releasing pigeons during the opening ceremony symbolises peace
and harmony for Hong Kong
Members of the Force had been offering their support to activities that are beneficial to society and participating in charitable events promoting harmony in society, Mr Lee added.
Proceeds from sales of admission tickets, souvenirs and raffle tickets will all be donated to The Community Chest for the benefit of over 140 charitable organisations.
Jointly organised by the Force and The Community Chest, the Carnival was held at the Police Training School and the adjacent Aberdeen Sports Ground in Wong Chuk Hang, featuring a variety of activities, including performances by the bands of the Guangdong Armed Police, Auxiliary Police and the Force. The crowd was particularly impressed by the Police Tactical Unit, VIP Protection Unit and Special Duties Unit displays, the latter assisted by a Government Flying Services helicopter.
The Police Dog Unit put on a rousing demonstration and the show was rounded off by the tranquil moves of the Police Chinese Wushu Club members. In addition, there were interesting and informative displays and games stalls, including a display commemorating the 160th Anniversary of the Police.
Chairman of the Organising Committee for the event, Assistant Commissioner (Training) David Thomas stated that he would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone involved in the planning of the event as well as the generosity of all concerned in raising a considerable sum of money for charity.
"It really was a tremendous effort and shows us as a caring organisation," he said.
(More photos on Photo Features)
Officiating at the Opening Ceremony, Commissioner Lee Ming-kwai said: "Through the Carnival, we wish to foster police-community co-operation and mutual understanding bringing the Police and the public closer together. Police-community co-operation has been the key to the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong. Therefore, apart from routine contacts with the public, we are keen to share with the community our role and future direction, which is part of our quality service."
Dramatic demonstration by the Special Duties Unit