The three Police personnel who died during Hurricane Fabian five years ago, were remembered by the Bermuda Police Association (BPA) yesterday.

Around 2.30 p.m. on September 5, five years ago, P.C. Stephen Symons, 37, P.C. Nicole O'Connor, 29, and Station duty officer, Gladys Saunders, 48, were stranded when their Police vehicle stopped on the Causeway. Behind their car was a civilian, Manuel Pacheco, 23, who was also trying to cross the Causeway.

Both vehicles stopped, though no-one is sure why, and though attempts were made to save them by firefighters, Policemen and construction workers, the four were washed into the sea. Only the body of P.C. Symons was found two days later on the oil docks near Ferry Reach. Yesterday Detective Constable Carl Neblett, Chairman of the Bermuda Police Association, said that the loss of their colleagues remained in their hearts and minds.

"I would like to say on behalf of the Bermuda Police Association that the loss of our colleagues during the tragic events of Hurricane Fabian still remains in our minds and our heartfelt condolences goes out to the families who will always remain in our hearts," he said.

Many of the BPA members will also take part in the fifth annual Remembrance Ride tomorrow (Sunday) which will start from City Hall around 3.30 p.m.

The riders will have a Police escort as they head to the Memorial Bench at Kindley Field Park to lay wreaths and flowers.

The ride, which is open to everyone regardless of the type of moped, motorcycle or scooter people ride, will then continue to St. George's turn on to Ordnance Island and then back to the Prospect Police Recreation Club.

Once at the PRC, there were will be a reception starting at 5.30 p.m. where various dignitaries will speak and food and entertainment will be provided. A supply of pins will be available to commemorate the annual motorcycle ride for $10.

The proceeds from these pins will go to the September 5th Foundation to provide educational scholarships for the children of the victims.

They can be purchased at the City Hall car pack on the day of the ride and at the end of the reception.

Det. Neblett added: "The ride is a great undertaking and I hope that we will never lose sight of how one tragic event can bring people together."