FRIENDS and family have clubbed together to pay tribute to a police officer from Bolton who died at the age of just 41.

Garry Mathieson died in January 2005 after a battle against cancer, and every year friends and family gather to celebrate his memory.

They, together with many members of the police force, take part in a charity golf tournament.

The Garry Mathieson Memorial Golf Day, now into its sixth year, was held at Breightmet Golf Club with scores of people taking part to celebrate the married father-of-two’s life.

Mr Mathieson was a dog handler, based in Prestwich. He was born in Bolton where he lived until he moved to Darwen in 2004.

Mr Mathieson fought stomach cancer for eight years and carried on working until three months before he died.

To date the annual charity golf tournament has raised £6,500 for East Lancashire Hospice and Clic Sargent Cancer for children. His brother and organiser of the recent charity tournament, Neil Mathieson, said: “It was a fantastic day and we raised £791 this year, which was a great result for all concerned.

“Thousands of pounds have been raised in Garry’s name over the years.

“We’re now looking forward to our seventh year and want to raise even more next year.

“Garry would have been the first person to support others who need the dignity and respect that East Lancashire Hospice provides.”

After the tournament, supporters and players had a toast to Mr Mathieson, who was a member of Sedgley Park Rugby Club. They also raised money through a raffle, with prizes donated by Boots, and other events.