News in brief

On Sunday sports enthusiasts sat down to a two hour celebration of the Sports Personalities of the year on BBC1. Sara Phillips, daughter of Princess Anne, won the title.

Locally, the following day, Bedford celebrated with the presentation of the Sports Awards for the year. And in some style too; years ago it used to be held in the Harpur Suite, but because of the popularity of the event, the Corn Exchange was used, and the room was full.

 

The introductory remarks were given by Richard Tapley, Principal Sports Development Officer. The success of this event, and indeed the profile that Bedford enjoys as a sporting town, is largely due to his efforts.

I was given an invitation to attend, and felt most privileged to be right at the front - ideal for photography! Next to me was the ever charming Gail Emms, Commonwealth and world Badminton champion. Nearby was Martin Bayfield, one of our hugely successful rugby stars and, we learned, a stand-in for Hagrid in a Harry Potter film!

 

The event could not have gone more smoothly! After seeing a video showing Gail Emms in action, Gail spoke about her involvement in the sport, and how much she valued Bedford as the place where she was given a chance to shine.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gail, five foot three, was followed by Martin Bayfield, six foot ten and easily the tallest international rugby player probably of all time! Martin used to play for Bedford, and said that every time he passed the Goldington Road pitch he remembered with affection that it had all begun there! He is now a highly sought-after BBC journalist.

 

 

 

 

 

Now to the awards. The Sports Club of the year award went to Riverside Tennis Club. Throughout the year the club has built six new courts and three indoor ones. Two junior teams made the regional finals in National competition!

Sharnbrook Upper School won the Sporting school of the year award.

Sports Team of the year was Bedford Tigers Rugby League, still a young club - two years- but already proving successful.

Sports Coach of the year was Paul Birch from Bedford Modern School, a Table Tennis expert, who this year was selected as National Team coach to the English World Cup squad.

The Sports Personality of the year award went to Lucy Cadge, Netball player. This year Lucy captained the England U19 team that won the European Championships.

And finally, the Open "Pride of Bedford" award went to Gail Emms.

A splendid occasion, well done to Richard Tapley and team. In Bedford, sport is flourishing and is in good hands.