Harry Crapper
HARRY CRAPPER, the Classic-winning former Sheffield trainer,was given a surprise GWA lifetime achievement award at last night’s GBGB Awards writes John Forbes
On a emotional evening for the Yorkshireman, who retired last year to nurse his late wife Berice, Crapper had been invited to the London gala by friend and owner Chris Brookes unaware that he was to be honoured.
Brookes said: “Harry had a long association with my late father Roy, and between us all we had some great times with dogs such as Frisby Flashing, Frisby Folly, Frisby Full, Fassan and Figo. Harry and Berice became great friends of ours.
“He really was one of the best trainers this game has ever seen, and remains an absolute gentleman. I told Harry we were going to London to “see some old friends”, hoping he’d say yes – and thankfully he came along!
“It’s great the GWA and GBGB have honoured him in this way. Harry is part of greyhound racing history – has won so many major races, including the St Leger and twice finishing second in the Derby. He’s one of the best there’s been.”
The George Ford Award for Services to Retired Greyhounds went to Diane Gibbinson of Northumberland RGT and Alison Waggott of Hollin Hall RGT.
Steve Dean, chairman of the Retired Greyhound Trust, said: “Diane and Alison’s branches have a great working relationship, having homed 149 greyhounds between them in 2015.
“However, their success goes well beyond their excellent joint working. They support other RGT branches across the Northern region and further to assist in matching the right greyhound to the best home.
“This synergy helps act not only as inspiration to their fellow volunteers but also showcases them as amazing representatives of the Trust.”
Steve Nash
Two other human interest awards already announced went to photographer Steve Nash, a popular winner of the GWA Harry Lloyd Services to Greyhound Racing award, and Gemma Byford, who is the Bags Kennelhand of the Year for her work at Norah McEllistrim’s kennel.
