We just received this fabulous photo of veteran members of the 1970’s PRC football team enjoying what’s believed to be their 12th Annual Get Together (they've lost count!) held earlier this month in Manchester, and previously held in Leeds and Southport.
PRC Stars of the 70's!
Left front to rear - Graham Blackshaw, Dave Walker, John Headey & John Riordan
Right front to rear - Bob Porritt, Bob Kinnon and Steve Taylor
Many thanks to our old friend Bob Porritt for sending us the photo and for providing a little information on our veteran stars who have, of course, finally hung up their football boots, and are now enjoying supporting their favourite teams playing in the English leagues.
Dave Walker - a printer by trade in Bermuda and a member of PRC football team. He’s been living in Thailand for 23 years and is an Everton fan.
John Headey - now lives in Huddersfield. John served here from 1971 - 1977, and didn’t return to policing on return to U.K. but ran a successful business. John’s daughter Lena, who was born in Bermuda, is a successful actress (Queen Cersei in Game of Thrones among many roles) who lives in the USA. John still supports Huddersfield Town despite their ups and down! CLICK HERE for our article “Royalty and Loyalty” about his gorgeous daughter, Lena, and John's commitment to the "Terriers" and hopes his grandson Wylie will follow in his footsteps!
John Headey with grandson Wylie. Is young Wylie still a fan!
Bob Kinnon - Served here from 1973-1980 then rejoined West Yorkshire Police. Now retired and currently living near Huddersfield. CLICK HERE for our ExPo article on Bob’s family return visit to the Island in 2012. Bob’s an ardent Leeds United supporter and he and his son Matt showed their enthusiasm when Leeds won promotion to the Premiership last season! And hoping they'll still be in the Premier League at the end of this season!
Bob and son Matt are ecstatic!
Bob Porritt - Served here in the BPS from 1970-1975. CLICK HERE for Bob's reminiscences in our “Then and Now” column. After his return to England, Bob joined the West Yorkshire Police finally retired in the UK 23 years ago; lives in Dewsbury, and has supported Leeds United properly since 1980 when he served in Holbeck CID which covered Elland Road. Another one keeping his fingers crossed for
Granddad Bob with his 4 grandchildren taken in 2018
(l-r) Thomas, Lauren, Betsy (on Lauren's knee), and Leo being held by grandad Bob
John Riordan - Served in Bermuda only a short time from 1974-1975. Prior to that he played professional football at Huddersfield Town and Wigan Athletic. He is a supporter of Liverpool.
Young John RiordanGraham Blackshaw - another civvy who played for PRC. On returning to U.K. Graham worked in associate trades but since retiring he has gained diplomas in personal training. He now lives in Wigan and is a Manchester United supporter.
Steve Taylor - Served in Bermuda from 1971 – 1996 retiring as Sergeant. Steve was very involved in reviving our Bermuda Ex-Police Officers Association (ExPo) and was our President for several years. Since returning to the U.K. Steve remains very involved in keeping in touch with is old friends and colleagues and has orgabised several "Get Togethers". Despite living in the Liverpool area Steve is a keen supporter of Manchester United despite their recent fall from grace, and he'll no doubt be his beloved team can embark on the journery to their former glory! CLICK HERE for our article on Steve heading home to Liverpoool.
Steve during his Bermuda golfing days!