Lancashire Constabulary Sports & Social Club

The secretary had received reports from each sports section that highlighted the successes and achievements during the past year. Once again, the club committee were impressed by the continued high standard of sporting talent and the countless number of first, second and third placings at Police Sport UK Regional and National levels.

Some of these reports are detailed, some brief. Either way, they give an excellent reflection of the talented sports men and women that we have representing the force.

May this continue and may I stress at this point that it is important that Sectional secretaries report back in as much detail as possible on the achievements and activities of their members. This will enable us to continue funding support up to the limits of the money we have available.

I have just about received a report from all 27 of our Sports Sections and these will be posted on our Club Internet Website for anyone to read in the next few days.

I have identified just six significant achievements that I propose to read at the meeting today. This is not to say that these reports are the top six. There are countless other achievements recorded and I am sure, for one reason or another, there are many others that go unrecorded.

May I take this opportunity to ask all Section Secretaries to submit pictures for the website. I have received more this year and as more members go digital, the situation will improve further.

The Club are also running a photographic competition. I therefore urge you to mark up your best photos for inclusion. This will be judged later in the year when £50 cash prizes will be awarded.

Running seems to go from strength to strength in terms of popularity. This is probably because it is one of the key 'keep fit' sports and playing costs are minimum. Also, there is much scope to encourage all skill levels of runners who can participate at both county and national events.

Again, well turned out with the Lancashire men scoring 4th place in the team event and ladies also scoring 4th place team.

The section organises two annual Inter-Divisional events - a cross-country in February and a 10k road race in July. The Cross Country event was held at Witton Park, Blackburn. An excellent turn-out from Lancashire with 48 runners and a further 48 runners attending from other police northern league police forces. Despite freezing cold conditions and periodic snow flurries everyone had an enjoyable race.

Pennine Division took many of the prizes with 1st places men and women's teams. However, Central's Mike Riley and Northern's Anna Willets took the men and women's individual places.

The course will be hosted by Northumbria Police on Newcastle Town Moor close to the city centre. Fine, dry, sunny weather and blue skies greeted the 275 runners representing 36 UK police forces. Lancashires men's team had their best team performance for many years scoring 5th place overall. A good effort was also had from the three Lancashire ladies. The Lancashire male veteran 40+ team also scored well placed 8th overall.

A five strong Lancashire team were triumphant in the 2006 PSUK Marathon when they scooped the first team prize and Mike Riley was first in the individual open and veteran classes. Ian Pudge was placed 4th male and Steve Broadbent was 3rd veteran 40+.

The race started at 10am with cloudy but humid conditions. As the morning progressed the clouds broke and the temperature rose into the 70's. This did not stop Central Division's Mike Riley running a tremendous race finishing 2nd in the overall Shakespeare Marathon event in 2 hours 46 minutes. Mike, 40 years, won the Police Sport UK open race and also the veteran 40+ class.

Burnley's Ian Pudge ran his debut marathon and finished in a tremendous 'sub 3' time of 2 hours 59 minutes. Northern Division's Steve Broadbent and Eastern's Simon Banfield having run in the London Marathon two weeks earlier both ran good races in 3.21 and 3.26 respectively. Headquarters based Inspector Neil Hunter also ran an excellent time of 3.26.

Mike Riley has now been put forward to compete in the 2006 European Police Marathon Championships (USPE) to be held in Turkey in November.

Lancashire Constabulary Athletics Section volunteered to organise the 2005 British Police Fell Race course. I live in the neighbouring force area, Cumbria at the foot of the Howgill Fells. I thought it appropriate to stage this event over these somewhat 'forgotten' hills.

The highest of the Howgills stand at just over 2000 feet, Fell Head being the highest summit on the course. The range I picked tower elegantly above the M6 motorway and I am sure those travelling north on the M6 toward Scotland will often look across right and marvel at these 'elephant skin' like rolling hills.

On race day the Howgills were blessed with fine, dry and sunny weather. I started the day at 7.30 am running around the 11 mile course to place the check point markers. I had already run the course two days earlier to double check the coordinates, so my legs were a little tired.

As I climbed the last hill, Blease Fell, it was fairly apparent to me that I had set a rather 'mean' course. Having said this, I have to say it is a real 'fellrunners' course with everything on offer. Some gradual ascents and descents and some very steep ones to compliment. River crossings, grassy traverses, few rocks and plenty of very runnable, dry grassy slopes.

I completed the course in just over three hours arriving back in Tebay at 11 am to meet Ian Campbell, the race organiser. Within minutes the first competitors began to arrive, congregating at the Cross Keys Inn. We had a total of 89 entries with 70 taking part on the day. These runners represented 15 British police forces. An excellent turnout.

The race started on time with conditions still being warm and sunny with broken cloud. The field soon spread out with Cheshire's Malcolm Fowler maintaining the lead throughout the race finishing the eleven mile course in 1.30.37. His younger Cheshire colleague, Ian Weatherill took advantage of Malcolm's form and good navigational skills but was unable to take a lead, finishing third to West Yorkshire's Jonathan Wright.

Derbyshire's Christine Howard was first lady and overall sixth place finishing in a tremendous 1.41, only eleven minutes behind Malcolm Fowler.

Third in 2004, Lancashire were placed 4th this year with Mike Riley (Central) having a tremendous run being placed 5th overall. Ian Pudge (Pennine) a good race and was 2nd home with Veteran 50+ Phil Corris being our third counter flying home in just over two hours.

The bulk of the field all finished this gruelling 3200 foot ascent course in under 2 hours 30 minutes.

I, acting as sweep (and completing my second lap of the day) and my faithful border collie, Cassie, followed the last runner home in 3.30, nicely timed for the presentation and a welcome hot meal at the Cross Keys Inn, Tebay.

Despite three check-point markers going AWOL during the race, the 2005 British Police Fell Race went tremendously well. There were only two retirements. This was a record number of finishers for some years and the only injuries reported were very sore calves!

Nine members travelled to Newport, Gwent. Star jumper, PC John Wiggans (Central) won a hat-trick of silver medals in the Men's Long Jump, Tiple Jump, and High Jumps. PC Beckie Herbert also returned tremendous results with bronze medals in the triple and high jumps.

Eight other members of the Athletics Section also took part in a variety of track and field events.

The section organises two annual Inter-Divisional events - a cross-country in February and a 10k road race in July. The ever popular summer 10K Road Race was very well supported totalling 90 entries from the force with 64 completing the 6.2 mile course on the night.

Our top male runners competed for the force against a large number of north-west running clubs. Shaun Brady (Northern), Mike Riley (Central), Stuart Williams (HQ) and Chris Shaw (Pennine) placed 8th, 15, 18th and 22nd overall. A tremendous team achievement. Anna Willetts (Northern) was first lady in a great time of 44.50.

The 2006 event was hosted by Hampshire Police in Southampton in September. Some excellent performances were returned by all of the eleven members who attended.

A total of 12 members of the Section along with their families flew to Geneva and compted in the Lausanne Marathon Half Marathon and 10K events. Full report in the Athletics web page.

Again, well turned out with the Lancashire men doing well in third place by the half-way point in the season.

A very good year for the Badminton section. Not only have we had good results but have also increased out membership significantly.

The regional championships were held in February and was well supported by Lancashire and other forces. Obviously there were differing standards of play but the event was enjoyed by everyone involved.

Three of the new players gave impressive performances. Ashley Gibson and Simon Taylor who lost in the mens doubles final. Amanda Hawron who won the ladies doubles, and Ashley and Amanda then joined forces to win the mixed doubles.

Other regional winners were Keith Aston and Paul Hope in the mens doubles, Keith Ashton and Peter Wright in the veteran mens doubles, Martin Kay and Dave Sherrington who also won through to the national finals in the veteran mens doubles and Dave Sherrington and Peter Wright who won the super veteran mens doubles.

The national championships were this year held by the Metropolitan Police in Hounslow.

The first event was the Ladies doubles. Amanda and Maxine battled through to the semi final where they came up against the titleholders and top seeds who were just a little strong for them.

The Mixed Doubles was next where Ashley and Amanda beat the holders and top seeds from Scotland in the early rounds. They then won through to the final but were unfortunate to lose in the third game to a pair from the Met.

The mens doubles were next and following closely fought games throughout the tournament the same two pairs as last year met in the final with Paul and Keith losing in the final to the pair form the Metropolitan police.

Peter and Keith then started the defence of their national vets mens title and went well until the final where they lost to a pair from the Met who had just come into their age group.

Last was the men’s super vets. With Peter Wright now old enough to partner Dave Sherrington in this event. This one was never in doubt as these two easily won through to the final and then overpowered the opponents to take the title for the first time.

Although it sounds disappointing that we lost in 3 finals and won only one it should be noted that this is an incredibly high standard and those competitors who reach the finals should be proud of the achievement. In the team event the North West region earned the highest score for 12 years and came third.

This year, the Men’s Basketball Section continued field a team in the Burnley Basketball League, and entered the Police Sport UK National Championships.

We continue to enjoy success in the league by again coming second for the third season running. The new players recruited over the last couple of seasons are now showing a marked improvement and now increasingly contributing to the success of the team. We also recruited a couple of new players from the recent intake of student officers who should significantly reduce the average age of the team.

The Regional Qualifier for the Police Sport UK National Championships was hosted in Sefton by Merseyside Police. We were narrowly defeated by both the other teams in the tournament, who went on to take third and fourth place in the final Tournament.

We are still looking to recruit new players recently, so if you are interested in playing basketball, please contact the secretary, Peter Zsigmond on 07973 254932, or email: bigzig@lineone.net or Peter.Zsigmond@lancashire.pnn.police.uk

The Women’s Basketball Section competed in the Championships held in Grangemouth, Scotland on 12-14 May 2006. They finished in 9^th position, but won the Dai Potter Fair Play Trophy. They are now training for the 2007 competition to be held in London on 18/19 May. If you are an experienced player, or just fancy a go, please contact Peter Zsigmond (details shown above), or Jo Stubbs at Bispham on 07950 383393, or email: Joanne.Stubbs@lancashire.pnn.police.uk

The 2006 season saw the Lancashire’s clay shooting team missing a few of the top scoring members at the North West regional shoots and took a bit of a backward step in the team events. Having finished in 2^ndplace in the down the line event (DTL), and 3^rd place in the Skeet and Sporting events, with Greater Manchester Police taking 1^st place in all 3 events. Although to be fair there weren’t many points separating the top 3 places.

On a positive note individually John Pemberton (retired) was the 3^rd high gun in the Regional DTL event. With Matt Kneale and John Ormerod (Captain) gaining their highest individual points so far in the Novice section of the National Championships and finishing joint 5^th and 7^th in the country in the Sporting event.

2006 also saw some new members introduced to the team and will no doubt in 2007 show the existing members what they made off. (Nothing like a bit of internal competition to keep you on your toes). The Captain is now force to wear spectacles for distance and hopes this may lead to better scores.

Lancashire Constabulary Cricket Section enjoyed a successful season, making good progress through to the quarter-final of the Police Sport UK Knockout. The strength of the squad was also reflected in the selection of two members, Gareth Evans and Ben Dowling, for the British Police Cricket Club tour in June. Both rewarded the selectors by making impressive debuts and will no doubt be invited to represent the national police cricket team again in 2007. This is a great credit to Lancashire, who had not had anyone selected for national honours for some ten years.

In the PSUK cup first round, Lancashire travelled to play Norfolk, very much an unknown quantity having never played them before. The game was played on a glorious day, 10 May, in the equally glorious surroundings of Old Buckingham Cricket Club, deep in the Norfolk countryside. Norfolk batted first and in the face of good all-round bowling and fielding made 135 for 9 from their 45 overs. The wickets were shared (Andy Ingham and Gareth Evans 2 each, Gary Bolton, Richard McCutcheon and Neil Gregson 1 apiece) with two runouts refelecting the standard of the Lancashire fielding. In reply, opener Phil Barber departed early and despite losing two other wickets in the fifties, the result never looked in any doubt as Gareth Evans compiled a superb 92 not out, looking a quality above all other batsmen on the day. Lancashire eased home, winning by 7 wickets with 18 overs to spare.

Lancashire were again drawn ‘away’ in the second round, to another unknown quantity in Hampshire, with the game being played on another glorious hot summer’s day on 28 June, at the former Hampshire county out-ground, Basingstoke Cricket Club. Lancashire put in another good bowling and fielding performance, although after Hampshire were at one stage 100 for 7, they were let off the hook a little to finish on 171 for 8. The wickets were again shared, with Neil Gregson 3, Gareth Evans 2 and Ben Dowling, Andy Sidgreaves and Richard McCutcheon 1 each. Gareth Evans was again the hero of the batting performance, playing the anchor role with another top-quality innings of 81 not out, although Hampshire made us fight hard, taking wickets regularly at the other end. At 88 for 6 it was looking a bit shaky for Lancashire, but Richard McCutcheon played a great captain’s innings of 34 not out to keep Gareth company and see us home to victory by 4 wickets in the 39^th of the 45 overs.

In the quarter-final we were again drawn ‘away’ and to play the 2005 reigning champions, Dyfed-Powys Police, at Ammanford Cricket Club, near Swansea. Unfortunately our luck with the weather, and the results, ran out. Heavy rain on the journey down through Wales was followed by further downpours at the ground itself, with no sign of the forecast improvement. Eventually it was agreed that as there was no prospect of even a 10-over game, the result would have to be decided by means of a ‘bowl-out’. This too was carried out in the pouring rain in the ‘net’ wicket, the difficulty of the conditions being reflected in the score of one-one after ten balls each! The contest went to ‘sudden death’ with Lancashire being unable to respond to a further hit by Dyfed-Powys – and certain comments that the batsmen could have bowled straighter than the five bowlers selected for the bowl-out! This was a very disappointing and frustrating way to go out of the competition. We had certainly fancied our chances against Dyfed-Powys, who went on to beat Northumbria and then the Metropolitan Police in the final, to retain the PSUK trophy. However, the rain prevented us from having a proper contest.

On a positive note, I remain convinced that we have a strong enough squad to win the national title for the first ever time, with some excellent young cricketers having been recruited recently, to complement some of the more experienced members.

Seven members entered the event at Dalby Forest, near Pickering, North Yorkshire with the following results;

· Wendy Jacobs came second in the ladies event

This covers those with the best all round results across the road race, time trial and mountain bike events.

General events

2006 was by far the busiest year with the highest number of members competing in local time trials and road races, which bodes well for the future.

For the season of 2006 members from the club competed at 3 competitions on a regional basis.

During June 10 members fished in a 3 day boat competition at Rutland with opposition provided by Cheshire Constabulary and the Grey’s international teams. The Lancashire teams performed well in a pairs basis and the event was won by John Puttock and Dave Milburn from Pennine and HQ Division respectively with a total of 39 fish. The event is organised by the Pennine Division fishing representative, Dave Milburn. Any interested parties should contact Dave at HQ Training.

Lancashire submitted two teams for the National police pairs competition held at Draycote in October. The day is well attended by all forces and is used as a precursor for the PAA qualifiers. Although bad weather hampered the day Lancashire top entrant of James Boothby from G Division finished sixth overall in the competition.

For the rest of the year members fished in conjunction with Divisional competitions with matches held at Stocks Reservoir, Esthwaite water and Ladybower Reservoir.

Any officers wishing to be kept in touch with the organised events for the forthcoming years can contact Jim Boothby on (Int) 415783.

Colne Water Angling Club. The club owns a membership ticket for the practice facilities available on this water and during the year 35 members used the facilities throughout the year. Application has been successful for this coming year and the facilities will be available for 2007. Any member wishing to fish the facility should contact me to ensure availability as the water has limited numbers allowed. New members are welcome to make use of the facilities as a means of getting back into or interested in the sport and visits can be arranged with some members to assist novices. The club owns 2 still waters at Sabden and Colne both being stocked with Rainbow Trout. There is a security gate on the Sabden facility and the code can be obtained from me or Dave Milburn prior to visiting.

The Football Section operates two teams, a regular and a veterans squad. The section has developed a fine pedigree over the years in PSUK terms. The regular team have been national champions on 3 occasions and the veterans are currently champions, having recently retained their title.

The regular squad participates every Saturday during the season in the West Lancashire Football League, associated cups and the Lancashire Amateur Cup. DC Oliver Jemson (Central Division) is the current Manager and Alan Martin (VMU, HQ) is the Assistant Manager.

A combined team also participates in the Regional Frank Close Cup, which includes GMP, Merseyside, BTP, Cheshire and North Wales. Lancashire hosted the Finals Day at Police Headquarters in April 2006 and won the competition for the first time in many years. DC Craig Shirtcliffe (Western Division) is the current manager of the Frank Close Cup Squad.

The PSUK Regular team were knocked out in the Regional Final last season, losing to Northumbria. They have qualified for the Regional Final again this season and await the winners of South Yorkshire or Humberside.

The PSUK Veterans Team retained their title as National Champions, beating the Met Police 3-1 on penalties after extra time ended 1-1 at Port Vale FC ground in May 2006.

The goal in normal time was scored by PS Paul Goodall. The successful penalty takers were CI Andy Murphy, Insp Steve Anderton and PC Shaun Juriansz.

PS Dave Charlton (Southern Division) who managed the successful Vets team to 5 national PSUK cups, included 4 in successive years retired in December 2006. The new Vets Manager is PC John Butler (Western Division).

Lancashire Football Section have been represented many times in the past in the Great Britain and England Police Football Squads, the list includes the current Chief Constable, Steve Finnigan, the current club captain, PC Mark Woolston and ex Preston North End Veteran CI Andy Murphy.

This season Lancashire has again had representatives in the England Squad for the Home Championship series. PC Carl McCoy, PC Chris Scott (both Pennine Division) and PC Paul Haddow were recently part of the successful England team that beat their Scottish counterparts at Clyde F.C.’s ground 2-1 in October 2006. They have been included in the Squad for the later Championship games against Wales and the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

The season opener was the annual match against Myerscough College, Garstang back in mid April. It is a team of 12 played in fourball match play. The match was instigated ten years ago by this years Lancashire golf team Captain P.C Peter Murphy in an effort to engage the local students with the local officers. We had not lost the match and under the command of the match organiser confidence was high.

A short time later all was not well when the students thrashed our team 5 1/5 to a 1/5.

It was not without notice that a certain professional Richard Smith working at the college had turned out with his clubs, under the rule “ ex students welcome”.

He and his partner Tom Winn who’s father is a copper beat the Captain and secretary 5 & 4.

The photo of the trophy being presented appeared in the Garstang Courier and thanks should go to Dominic Sainsbury for his efforts along with Peter to make this fixture the popular event it has become over the last decade. Now Peter has retired it is hoped this event will live on for many years and I’m sure he will be present on the first tee with his clubs for many more years to come.

Remember the 15 th May? I do it was the Northwest wettest day of the year or so it felt. It was also the 36 hole North West Police Sport UK Golf Championship, held at Stockport Golf Club. This is a course used for Open qualifying and it is a wonderful test of golf and always worthy of a day out.

We did have a water baby amongst us who turned out to be HQ based D.C Nigel Barnes. He won the overall scratch with fantastic scores of 72 and 70 gross net 68/66 against a par of 72 a truly impressive performance under any weather conditions but with such heavy rain all day a fantastic display, unbeatable even.

This edged out Merseyside player Matthew Denton who’s score I suggest would have won on any other occasion 142.

Other scores form Lancashire players were as follows. Dave Wilkins 90/77 and 86/73. 32 stableford points. Ian Hill 74/ NR. Peter Nelson 77/73 and 77/73. Mike Hansen 78/76 and 74/72. Ian Nickson 78/72 and 79/73 and 33 points. Paul Clayton 81/75 and NR. Martin Kay 83/76 and 83/76 and 23 points, David Butler 89/81 and 78/70 and 36 points. Peter Murphy 83/74 and 87/78 and 28 points. Dean White 94/76 and 94/76 and 31 points. Gordon Beattie 83/73 and 86/76 and 31 points.

Early June was National Championship time again, this year Lancashire were the host force with Fairhaven Golf Club presenting the wonderful test a of a true championship venue. It is fair to say that all the competitors considered it to be one of the best-run championships at a truly wonderful venue with the benefit of the best weeks sunshine of the golfing season. Thanks must go to Peter Murphy, Championship organiser for all his time along with a great number of team members acting as volunteers for the event. We did Lancashire proud !!

Ian Hill and Mike Hansen represented the British Police Team in the annual match verses the Civil Service at Walton Heath, where the Civil service came out the victors in a closely fought match. It is one I know all the competitors in the Championships strive hard to finish in the top ten in order to represent their National team in.

On a pleasant day that was the 3 rd July Lancaster Golf Club hosted the Chief Constables Cup. It was fair to say this was not as well supported as in previous years. Seven players battled it out over a course that is renowned for its lovely fast undulating greens, beautiful scenery and generous hospitality. Gordon Bettie took the Captains prize with 50 points over 27 holes stableford. Harry Kay shield for pm stableford went to David Butler 79/71 35 points. Woodmansey Cup, best gross Ian Hill 75.

After a walk over against Warwickshire in June the 12 Th July at Sandwell Golf Club hosted the quarter final of the British Police team championship. We were drawn away to strong favourites West Midlands on their home track. Led by our determined Captain fantastic Peter we pulled through three matches to two in a very closely fought match. The result was not unknown until the very last put was missed on the 18 green of the last match out on the course. Away players first.

On 13 July, Garstang Golf Club played host to the resurrected Inter Divisional match. This year’s format was six players per division with the best five net scores to count.

Eastern division won with the winning team net scores being Nigel Watson 67, John Ramsbottom 76, John Whitehead 66, Simon Scott 73, Mark Wheelan 74, Ian Geogarty 72. Lowest Individual score Ian Hill 64 after a card play off with Colin Gooch G Div. Eastern will now host this event in 2007 when hopefully all divisions will be able to compete, as disappointingly Pennine did not show in 2006.

In late July, Lancashire played host to GMP at sunny Garstang Golf Club. The match was an honourable draw. Home team players first the match results were as follows.

1^st September was ladies PSUK championships day at Five Lakes Essex. Two Lancashire ladies competed they were Christine Fletcher from HQ and retired Joyce Green. Alison Gemmill defended the gross title with the organiser Toni Hodge taking the net prize.

During mid September Fairhaven hosted the Hart Trophy first round match against Wigan Police. A tough match was played 18 holes fourball better ball Lancashire coming out as victors.

Lancashire travelled to Norfolk to compete in the finals of the British Police Championship in September. We were drawn against Essex in the semi final and won through to the afternoon final in a closely fought match, in lovely weather conditions. The afternoon final was played against Wiltshire. After nine holes all was not looking well at all for the Lancashire boys as we were down in four matches. It was at this point I think match fitness kicked in and the last nine holes witnessed a come back of epic proportions by Lancashire’s players who eventually won through three matches to two. The decider finishing on the twentieth hole where a par four took the title.

The Hart trophy final at Mere in early October was somewhat of an anti climax by getting knocked out against Cheshire the eventual winners in the morning semi final.

First handicap national championship. Fairhaven Golf Club 16/17/18 Sept. 2 players per force.

After losing to L&B, Lancashire Constabulary were drawn against local rivals GMP, a game played away in Manchester on 31st January 2006. This fixture saw a very disjointed game with Lancashire being beaten 5-3, Lancashire scorers were PC Selina Boyes and PS Wendy Jacobs x2. Once again a disappointing end to Lancashire’s run in this competition.

Lancashire entered the Police National 11 a side Hockey Championships which was held over weekend 12^th & 13^th August 2006 in Manchester. Our team performed very well over the weekend, winning this competition for the first time. Lancashire were drawn in Pool A with Met Police, Cambridgeshire, Strathclyde, Lothian & Borders and North Wales, the results were as follows:

These results put Lancashire into the Ladies Semi Final as winners of their Pool and were drawn the next day against runners up in Pool B Thames Valley

Into the final Lancashire met up with rivals in their group the day before Met Police, result was a 0-0 draw and Lancashire eventually won 2-1 on penalties.

PSUK Ladies Hockey Championship 2006/07 has begun, Lancashire had a Bye in the 1^st round and were then drawn against local rivals Merseyside which was played at Leyland on Weds 22^nd November 2006. Result being Lancashire 2 v Merseyside 5 scorers Wendy Jacobs and Wendy Eastham. Lancashire now go into the Plate competition which will start January 2007.

For me, the year started when Steve Broadbent booked me into the PSUK 3-day event at Potters in Norfolk. This event was quite difficult as I did not know what to expect and the meals, which were at set times, often seemed to coincide with the times the bowling was set for. However, a diet of sandwiches seemed to do me the world of good, as I won the Ladies singles event, a substantial trophy for which resides in a cabinet on the eighth floor of the Central Police Station in Blackpool. I hope that I can defend this championship in 2007.

Potters was the start of my assault on the trail of the British Police Tenpin Association League of tournaments, the lone Lancashire Constabulary bowler.

The next tournament was in Hertfordshire, a 1-day event contested over nine games, in which I came 2^nd in the Female – All-events section.

Tunbridge Wells for the National Singles event. I made the semi-finals in this one.

Worthing was next for the Sussex round and once again I was placed second in the female all events.

For the first time I managed to get a 4 man team together to represent Lancashire. PC Ben Porter and I won the doubles event, and once again I came 2^nd in the female all events to the same Yorkshire policewoman. Hopefully I’ll beat her more than once next year.

The camaraderie amongst all the teams contesting the police championships is fantastic. My husband is a tenpin bowling coach who normally teaches in Blackpool and he has been training our team in his spare time. I have at least another three people interested in joining the Lancashire police team, so I hope that next year we can really make our presence felt in both the police tenpin bowling and the PSUK events.

I would like to add that all the tournaments are on a weekday. All of the team have taken own leave .

The Northern Region AGM was held in February at Hough End, Manchester and I was re-elected as Vice Chairman.

In 1986 I started in Lancashire what was to become one of the Motor Club success stories by holding the first FBPMC Motorcycle 'TREK' on behalf of the Lancashire Constabulary Motor Club. Since then the events have gone from strength to strength with at least four such events being held round the Country each year.

The Lancashire Constabulary hosted a special '20^th ' Anniversary Trek in May this year and I am happy to report that some 61 Members and some 15 guests enjoyed the event which was based at Pontin's, Blackpool and covered a 200 mile route through Lancashire, The Lakes and even Pendle Hill.

Unfortunately the weather was a bit damp but everyone managed to finish and a good time was had by all, with the event being won by the South Yorkshire Contingent.

On Saturday 23^rd September 2006 a Lancashire Team took part in the South Yorkshire Trek based at Hellaby Hall, Rotherham and managed to finish 11^th out of 27 teams and individually 32^nd, 41^st and 56^th out of 73 Competitors.

We thank the Sports Club for their support and look forwards to the 2007 Season.

Lancashire Constabulary netball squad have had a very mixed year with some success but also some frustration and disappointment.

The squad has again expanded; following a recent recruitment drive 21 new players have expressed an interest in joining the teams.

At present Lancashire enter two teams in the PSUK knockout and the two-day tournament

The A Team had a successful start to the season reaching the Northern Final of the Knockout Tournament. Lancashire had to play Derbyshire Constabulary, the overall winners for the previous six years. Unfortunately Lancashire were defeated and Derbyshire went on to defeat The Met and took the title crown again.

In September 2006 Lancashire entered two teams in the PSUK weekend tournament, which was held in Merseyside. Lancashire A reached the GOLD section, playing off on the second day for a place in the top 10. Lancashire B reached the SILVER Section on the second day, playing for a position of 11-20.

Lancashire A were narrowly defeated by their arch rivals GMP, who went on to win the competition.

Lancashire B reached the final in the SILVER section and were pipped to the post by GMP B Team in a nail biting match.

Overall placings at the tournament were Lancashire A – joint 5^th and Lancashire B – 12^th, this was out of 31 teams that entered the tournament.

Lancashire have now employed the services of a permanent coach for the squad and it is hoped that both teams can improve their positions in next years season.

The section has had limited results this year due to a lack of competing members. Despite positive responses to e-mail circulations there are still issues with persuading people to enter competitions.

Despite this PC 307 Palmer, PC 6049 McNally and PC Pete Burke represented the section at several Indoor events. PC Burke has since retired but has expressed an interest in continuing to compete once he has settled into civilian life.

PC 6049 McNally competed in the British Indoor Rowing Championships with PC Palmer in November 2006, she was poorly at this event but still performed well finishing 9^th in her 2000m category with Pc Palmer 5th. It was later discovered that she had cancer and sadly died of this condition on 14^th February 2007. She was a committed and long term member of the team and will be sorely missed.

Gold medal for PC Sue Palmer in the 40-49 2000m, Gold for Carole McNally in the 40-49 500m and Gold for PC Pete Burke in the mens’s 40-49 500m.

It is hoped that further competitors can be persuaded to row in 2007, training evenings will be announced to be held at HQ’s once Sue Palmer returns from the World Police and Fire Games in Adelaide.

The season back in March 06 got off to a slow start with a couple of unpredictable results which did not represent the quality of the combined Lancashire and Greater Manchester Police (GMP) Rugby League Team. The real low point was when a narrow death at the hands of a depleted Cheshire outfit as Crosfields Amateur Rugby League Club (ARLFC) in Warrington seemed the end of the road for our season. However after a careful calculation of points scored versus points conceded we were handed a very difficult game at the much fancied Metropolitan Police down in the capital. The Met had made significant improvements to their squad in the close season and were much fancied by many to claim the title following their defeat in the final at our hands the previous year.

Obviously still smarting from the score form the final last year in York the met boys gave a great show, but against the form book we came away with a tremendous victory and booked a place in the final against West Yorkshire Police.

West York’s have a very proud record in the completion and have never been beaten in the final so we under no illusions as to what lay ahead as we approached the culmination of a very interesting season.

Cheshire Constabulary were the hosts of the 2006 final and the game was played at Crosfields (ARLFC) in Warrington, the venue of our previously mentioned low point. The game was a tremendous advert for the quality of police rugby league and after great first half where we established a sound lead; we faced a tenacious second half fight back but managed to hang on to a 24-22 victory. So for a second year running we were crowned National Champions which rounded off a great season, was well deserved and was testament to the commitment of all involved.

Call up to the National side for Lancashire’s officers Alan Clark, Eugene Swift, Chris Holland, Gary Lowe and Danny Ambler were just rewards for their efforts. ( Several GMP officers were also summonsed to the National set up)

Rugby Union - By Section Secretary - Insp Stuart Noble

Yet another disappointing season with injuries and club commitments preventing progress in the PSUK when our first match had to be conceded to Cumbria. The age profile of the section is ‘stretching’ but many of the members still playing at a high ‘junior vets’ standard for local clubs. This may present as an opportunity for the section to play, at a social level, in some more local tournaments of this nature whilst still looking to put out a healthy PSUK side. Players are still far from being past their best.

2006 was another successful year for the Lancashire sailing section with teams and individual sailors competing in the PSUK Dinghy Championships, the PSUK Offshore Championships, and the North British Offshore Championships.

Members of the Sailing Section competed in the following sailing regatta events.-

Held in the Solent and Isle of Wight sea area. 19 Police forces were represented and crews of six raced the chartered Sunsail sunfast 37-foot yachts. Gale force winds forced the first day of racing to be abandoned. Racing resumed on the Tuesday with an 80-mile race from Portsmouth, past the Needles, to Poole harbour entrance buoy, continuing anticlockwise around the Isle of Wight finishing at Yarmouth. The sea and wind conditions provided challenging but exhilarating sailing.

An 8^th place in the final race when we beat some of the top teams confirmed that we could continue to compete at this level of offshore racing in future events.

The Lancashire Police team were, - Andy Cuddon (skipper) Insp Simon Hayes, Insp David Old, PC Ian McMillan, PC Simon Street, PC Paul McCann.

PSUK Laser and Dinghy Championships- June 2006

Held at Nottinghamshire County Sailing Club with the Laser class event held on one day, followed by the open dinghy event on the following two days.

PS Tony Critchley raced his supernova class dinghy well in the light wind conditions and finished in 8th position.

Andy Cuddon sailing a Laser class dinghy finished in 9^th place in the Laser event, and in 20^th place in the open championships.

Two yachts privately owned by skippers Eric Lange and Steve Martell sailed north and enjoyed 4 days of racing in the scenic Clyde area of Scotland.

Eric Lange and his crew finished in 2^nd place, sailing his yacht “Te Luath”a Najad 331

The overall sailing trend now appears to be away from single/ double-crewed dinghy racing towards larger offshore yacht racing events, with teams of 6-8 crewmembers.

I am pleased to see and encourage this as it is competitive with good team building, camaraderie, fitness levels, and develops seamanship and racing skills.

It is only in the last two years that Lancashire has entered the PSUK offshore championships, an event first held 20 years ago.

As I have recently retired from the Police I intend to “hand over the helm” as secretary for the sailing section to someone with a passion for sailing, who will encourage, support and promote dinghy and offshore sailing.

It has been an honour being the sailing secretary for the last five years. I thank all those who have offered their support and attended sailing events.

2006 saw Lancashire’s first foray into the Police Sport UK National Boat Fishing Championships. This years event was hosted by the Northern Constabulary and held in Orkney over the August Bank Holiday weekend .

34 four man teams travelled the length and breadth of the country to get to this remote location in Northern Scotland. Team Lancashire travelled 450miles from Preston to get to the ferry port of Scrabster just outside Thurso and then onward to Stromness the base for the championships.

The clear waters around Orkney are a popular destination with recreational divers and

Stromness is home to a large fleet of converted trawlers purposely kitted out as live aboard dive-boats. It was a mixed fleet of angling boats and these dive-boats that took the anglers out on the waters around Orkney. Fishing close to shore in the shadow of the cliffs anglers were able to enjoy some spectacular scenery including the famous ‘Old Man of Hoy’ a towering pillar cut from the cliffs through erosion.

Some of the veterans of this competition had sent advanced parties up to the venue some days before, both to dig local bait and to fish the venue on the day prior to the competition, hoping to gain the competitive edge by identifying those tactics most likely to work. It became obvious to us that were we were competing against some very serious and experienced competition anglers.

The weather was kind to us on the day of the competition with a mixture of sunshine and light showers, but more importantly very light winds. In the interests of conservation, the competition was run on a catch and release basis, with points being scored for each fish landed instead of a more traditional weigh in. Species caught included cod, pollack, mackerel .wrasse, ling, dab coalfish pouting and whiting.

In boat angling, the anglers are heavily reliant on the local knowledge of the boat’s skipper to put them where the fish are. In order to minimise any disparity in skippers ability on the results of the team , no two anglers from the same team fish on the same boat, so it’s not until the boats dock that the team is able to assess how well it’s done.

Given the team’s lack of experience in PSUK competitions, Lancashire finished in a creditable 20^th position from 34 teams. The event was won a very experienced Northumbria team. Highest individual placing went to Dave Eaves in 49^th place in a field of 134 anglers.

Hopefully this experience will enable Lancashire to fare better in this year’s competition, to be held in Weymouth in October 2007.

Lancashire didn’t enter a team in this year’s PSUK Shore Championships which were held in Stranraer in November, however we expect to field a team in the 2007 event later in the year.

Articles in the Force “Off Duty” magazine have generated more interest in the Sea Angling Section and this year it’s hoped to run some sectional events as well as compete in PSUK events, which should generate even more interest.

Lastly a big thanks on behalf of the Section to the Sports and Social Club Secretary, without whose help and guidance attendance at the Championship Events would not have been possible.

The prospects for the Shooting Section are improving with many enquiries coming from Sports and Social members wanting to know where and how to start target shooting. Some have previous shooting experience but many do not and it is good to see a large number of enquiries from support staff too. All those interested have been directed to local shooting clubs and it is hoped that in the future they will be competing on behalf of Lancashire Constabulary and PSUK.

Current members have not entered in as many competitions as usual this year due to illness and family commitments plus Dave Hodson retired from the Free Rifle (three positional) competition at the end of last season. He had previously won the PAA Free Rifle Championship five times and represented the PAA at four USPEs. Consequently the list of achievements by Shooting Section members is not as great as in other years. That said there have been some successes notably Iain McDonald who is still up at the top in PSUK Full Bore Rifle shooting.

Special mention must go to Paul Hatton who not only retired from the Constabulary at the end of 2005 but he also retired from the post of PSUK Shooting Section Secretary. This year Paul was presented with an Award of Excellence by the PSUK for services to Shooting. Paul was secretary for Lancashire Constabulary Shooting Section for 26 years, he was a committee member on the PSUK Shooting Section for 16 years and was the PSUK Shooting Section Secretary for the last 11 years. Congratulations Paul and many thanks for your efforts over the years!

2006 Achievements

PSUK League Div 2 Team Champions – S. Edmondson, P. Hatton, D. Hodson and R. Quirk.

PSUK Team Champions (Handicap League) - S. Edmondson, P. Hatton, D. Hodson and R. Quirk.

PSUK Short Range Team Champions (N.W. Region) - S. Edmondson, P. Hatton, D. Hodson and

Dave Hodson represented the PSUK against Northern Ireland in Belfast, against the Army at the Inter Services Meeting and against Wales in October.

He is also in the final six to compete in the trials to select the two shooters who will represent the PSUK at the USPE in 2007 (France).

PSUK Shooting Championship (Bisley) – 3^rd Phil Davies (Phil still holds three PSUK Shooting records).

PSUK Shooting Championship (Bisley) – 2^nd (Class B) John Lloyd (Excellent result at John’s first PSUK Championship).

Iain clocked up 1000s of miles touring the country competing in many police and civilian shooting competitions.

The Lancashire Police Team has again competed in the North West Counties Squash League, Division 4, finishing in mid table. Individually, PS Nicholson from Preston Division had the most improved set of results playing at no 2.

Insp Peter Upton,G Div, won the Lancashire Open title beating DS Dave Priest, G Div, in the final. At regional level DS Priest won the PSUK Mens Open and Insp Upton won the over 45 title. In the National finals Insp Upton won the over 45 title for the 5^th time beating an officer from the Metropolitan Police in the final.

The swimming section has had an excellent year, even though one of our star performers left Lancashire for SOCA.

The results of the 2006 PSUK National Swimming Championships at Cardiff are as follows: -

DC Ed Clayton, Southern Division was in excellent form winning the 100m butterfly and the 200m freestyle.

Age group G - Arthur Marshall, HQ Security, gained three silver medals and a bronze medal.

Age group E - CI Debbie Howard, Southern Division, gained two gold and one silver

CI Karen Simister, Northern Division, gained one silver medals and two bronze and PC Caroline Plummer, Southern Division, gained a bronze medal.

Age group C – PC Jayne Whalley, nimrod gained one gold and three silver medals.

In the relay events CI Howard, CI Simister, PC Plummer and PC Whalley gained the gold medal in both the freestyle and medley masters relays.

Due to their success in the championships the following officers were selected to represent the British Police throughout the year DC Clayton and PC Whalley.

At the GB Masters at Sheffield, DC Clayton and PC Whalley represented the British Police team with the following results: -

DC Clayton 30 – 34 years, Gold 100m butterfly, 100m freestyle and 200m freestyle. In the freestyle relay DC Clayton and PC Whalley formed part of the team that won the gold medal and DC Clayton was part of the team that won gold in the medley relay.

The ACPO National Lifesaving championships too place in London with the ladies team winning the over all event for the first time in 19 years. The team were dominant throughout, winning both of the initiative tests, second in the rope throw event and third in the swim and tow event. The team comprised of the captain PC Caroline Plummer, Southern Division, PS Julie Peter, Eastern Division, PC Rachel Carbery Eastern Division, PC Jayne Whalley nimrod and CI Karen Simister Northern Division.

The tennis section hosted the North West Regional Championships at the South Ribble Tennis Centre in May 2006. The event attracted 35 competitors from Cheshire ,Merseyside and Greater Manchester Police.

Lancashire had 5 competitors and Neil Gibson , Paul Barnes and Roger Ravenscroft all successfully won through to qualify for the National Championships.

The National Championships were held at the Leicestershire County Ground in September. Ravenscroft & Barnes were unfortunate to lose in the quarter final of the men”s doubles on a third set championship tie break .

Neil Gibson reached the final of the men”s singles ,narrowly losing in a deciding third set tie break 6 – 4 , 3 – 6 . 7 – 6 ( 7-5 ) against Richard Staff from Worcestershire.

Neil Gibson was asked to rejoin the British police team by the Captain and duly accepted ( spurred on by forthcoming fixtures in Holland, Spain & Monaco)

Lancashire have been asked to host the 2008 National Championships & are currently assessing the feasibility of so doing.

Potters was the start of my assault on the trail of the British Police Tenpin Association League of tournaments, the lone Lancashire Constabulary bowler.

The next tournament was in Hertfordshire, a 1-day event contested over nine games, in which I came 2^nd in the Female – All-events section.

Tunbridge Wells for the National Singles event. I made the semi-finals in this one.

Worthing was next for the Sussex round and once again I was placed second in the female all events.

I would like to add that all the tournaments are on a weekday. All of the team have taken own leave .

Lancashire Constabulary entered a team in the Lancashire Volleyball League for the Season 2005/06. The team unfortunately finished bottom of the league after playing 15 games in the season. Won –1, Draw –1, Lost –13. Due to the reduced number of teams entered in the league a 4-a-side competition was also run throughout the season, and the Constabulary entered 2 teams, Team A finished bottom of their pool having only won 1 game out of 4. Team B finished 3^rd wining 2 games out of four.

However, this competition helped us to improve and as such went to the PSUK Volleyball Championships a more confident squad.

This years Championships were hosted by Northumbria Police and held in the city of Newcastle. 12 Forces took part in what was an excellent tournament.

11 Forces entered a team in the Ladies Competition. Lancashire were in Group 2 together with Grampian, Strathclyde, Merseyside and Gloucestershire. Group 1 consisted of Metropolitan, Northeast (Northumbria & Humberside), Sussex, Essex, Fife and Lothian & Borders.

Our first game was at 9.35am on the Saturday against Gloucestershire. Lancashire soon took control of the game with good consistent serving. The final score was 25-4, 25-6 to Lancashire. We had got our first win.

Following a 1 hour 45 minute break we then took on the Mersey Blues. This was our local derby, the team we always want to beat. After a hard fought 1^st set, we came out on top winning 25-24. Time was running out, Merseyside took the lead and were beating us 14-8 when time was called. We thought we’d made a draw at one set each, but disappointment loomed, the match would be resulted by each set points being totalled, therefore we had lost the game.

We then had an hour to wait until our next game where we faced the mighty Strathclyde. Although they were one of the strongest teams in these championships we fought hard, but lost 17-25, 10-16.

Our next game was against Grampian, another strong Scottish side. Having had a break of 3½ hours it took us a while to warm up; we were beaten in the 1^st set 8-25. Although we fought hard in the 2^nd set we were beaten 17-20. This was our day done. The team had played well. The girls had served, blocked and attacked well.

We had finished 3^rd in our group and through to the Plate Competition. We faced the North East team, this comprised of players from Humberside, Durham and Northumbria. This was a closely fought match with some good teamwork; we lost the 1^st set 21-25. Sadly we did not start the 2^nd set as confidently as we had finished the first. The North East took the lead and we tried hard to keep in touch with them, however, the time ran out and we lost, 10-16.

MEN'S COMPETITION

There were a total of 11 men's teams in the competition comprising two pools. We were in the smaller pool of five teams, along with Grampian, Strathclyde (two of the favourites!), Sussex and Gloucester. Those of our team who played in the competition last year couldn't ignore the 'anomaly' that the groups were almost the same as in Aberdeen!

We had a slightly more 'morning friendly' start than the ladies as we played our first match at 9.35am against Sussex. With Andy Thornhill and Anthony Jenkinson being new additions to our squad, excitement was high as the game commenced. We took an early lead as Sussex struggled with the basics. Unfortunately, we had one of our famous 5 minutes where no-one remembered how to play and Sussex were soon back in the game. A tight set was eventually won by Sussex. We regrouped and performed a lot better in the 2^nd set, unfortunately just getting pipped to the 25 point winning line. We felt that that was a game we could have won and, looking at the strength and experience of the other teams in our pool, probably the only team that, on paper, we had a realistic chance of beating. Ho-hum! Onwards and upwards!

Grampian were next, an expected big step up from Sussex. And they were! A lot more technical and a faster playing team. Not surprisingly we lost both sets, but not without a fight. We played 100% better than the previous game, and took pride in taking 20 points out of Grampian in each set. This was a real boost to our confidence, which spilled over into the next match against Strathclyde (last years winners!).

We were totally un-phased by Strathclyde’s ranking, gave a good fight, and almost won the 1^st set; final score was 23 - 25. In the 2^nd set we traded the lead until it was 20-20 then Strathclyde pulled out some excellent volleyball that we had no answer to, 20-25.

We sat in the stands at Gateshead International Arena, had our lunch and looked forward to Gloucester.

We were a tired bunch when the match started and Glospol took an early lead. We reminded ourselves that we were not here just for the jolly and came back with a vengeance, again narrowly losing the 1^st set. We then showed our spirit, dug deep and played the sort of volleyball that we had practiced all summer. We won the second set 25-16, winning the match (on aggregate points)!

Despite propping up our league we had actually won a match and scared 2 of the favourites along the way. We rued losing to Sussex and vowed to cut out our obsession with poor starts!

We left Newcastle (Gateshead) with the knowledge that we had eventually performed well in the competition and promised to improve once back home.

We continue to train on a Wednesday evening 7-9 at Hutton Sports Hall and again have entered a team in the Lancashire Volleyball League.

Earlier in the year PS 2668 Kavanagh and PC2936 Walsh had the honour of representing British Police against the army/ raf and Met Police in powerlifting.

It was a very close competition with very high standards, PC Walsh and PS Kavanagh both attained personal bests.

Lancs sent a team of 3 powerlifters, PC3188 Brown, PC2936 Walsh and PS 2668 Kavanagh. All three won their respective classes, with PC Brown setting four Police records and PS Kavanagh setting two Police records.

This year's PSUK Champs will be hosted by Dorset, probably in October, all standards are welcome.

We currently have no competing weightlifters (snatch, clean and jerk), the weightlifting side of the championships is seeing a decline in numbers whilst the powerlifting goes from strength to strength.

There were a number of British Police representations from members of sports sections. These included shooting, swimming, rugby, athletics and tennis. Many of the achievements have already been summed up in the above Sectional reports.