A WATERPOLO tournament will be held in memory of a gold medal winner.

Radcliffe Swimming and Waterpolo Club is once again holding an annual event in memory of Dave 'Ralphy' Briggs.

The Radcliffe born and bred competitor played for Radcliffe Swimming and Waterpolo Club, the North West and The British Police Aquatic Team where he won a gold medal in the World Police Games in 1999.

One of his finest performances was in the final of the Police national championships playing for the North West police against the Met.

At half time, the team was 8-0 down but they came back to win 9-8. They put their success largely down to a string of saves by Ralph which kept his team in the game.

The memorial tournament was first competed for in 2011, in order to raise money for charity. The event has been held every year since and continues to raise hundreds of pounds for the charity.

Sam Dickinson, welfare officer at the club, said: "We would encourage as many supporters to come to the event to watch some tough and competitive matches between Radcliffe, sprinkled with some of our new 16 and under players, Bury Waterpolo Club, British Police Aquatic Team and City of Liverpool Water Polo.

"It is always an enjoyable event."

Stephen Davidson has set up a Just Giving page, which has so far raised £185 for Cancer Research UK.

The page reads: "‘Ralphy’ was Radcliffe born and bred and was soon introduced to Radcliffe swimming club by his mother Freda. As he matured he became the goalkeeper for Radcliffe then the North West and British police Water polo teams.

"He has played in many memorable waterpolo matches.

"He was a friend to everyone and is sorely missed by those who knew him."

The tournament will take place at Castle Leisure Centre in Bolton Street, on Saturday, between 5-8pm.

Spectators are welcome to attend the free event. Regular swim training will be cancelled to enable the event to go ahead.

To donate to the cause, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Ralphy2019.