NWR members from twelve counties came to Roffey Park Institute for a day of Forensics in Focus.
A lovely rural venue on the outskirts of Horsham, the conference room with its floor to ceiling windows gave us panoramic views of the extensive grounds.
Partners in crime
Each person was given an origami box containing not only sweet treats but also the name of one half of a crime duo and we were encouraged to find our ‘partner in crime’ during the coffee and lunch breaks. Later in the day we would work as a pair to solve the crime quiz.
“Fabulous day! I had such a good time – enjoyed all of it! Sincere thanks to all the Committee for their organisation and inventive activities to keep us all buzzing!”
Speakers
Our first speaker was forensic search and rescue expert, Peter Faulding. His illustrated talk was interesting and informative. He spoke at length of the cases he’d been involved with on land and under water. You may have seen him on the news being interviewed during the search for Nicola Bulley.
The second speaker was Hayley Scott, a former Forensic Investigator with over 14 years of experience working with the Metropolitan Police. Her role was to examine crime scenes and present evidence in court as an expert witness. She runs ‘The Forensic Experience’ which offers various interactive events for adults and children.
Afternoon workshops
After an excellent lunch, we split into groups for our chosen afternoon activities. We chose from a crime writers discussion, creative writing, the opportunity to solve a crime by following clues in the grounds and play reading (Linda Messham’s ‘NWR Ladies Only Eat One Biscuit’).
The day concluded with the crime quiz, prizes of magnifying glasses and two kindly donated copies of Peter Faulding’s book, What Lies Beneath – My Life as a Forensic Search and Rescue Expert, being awarded the the winning crime duo.
“Brilliant conference today. Thanks to all involved – superb speakers, delicious lunch & amazing venue.”
It was great to meet and greet friends from conferences over the years. Some of us stayed over and went out for a meal together the previous evening.
Huge praise goes to the committee who did us proud.
Attendees enjoying the day conference at Roffey Park
