Police play out sporting tribute to hero Ian Dibell (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Police play out sporting tribute to hero Ian Dibell

4:02pm Thursday 4th October 2012 in News

TWO police teams faced off in a charity rugby match in memory of hero police officer Ian Dibell.

PC Dibell, 41, was shot dead near his home in Clacton on July 9, when he tried to intervene in a dispute between neighbours while off duty.

The fundraiser was organised by Tendring cops who wanted to pay tribute to their fallen friend and colleague.

It pitted a Tendring police team against the Essex Police Force rugby side, with the Essex side eventually triumphing at Clacton rugby club.

Chief Insp Cat Barrie said: “This was a very poignant day for everyone involved particularly since the match took place during the funerals of the two Greater Manchester Police officers, and so soon after the death of our dear friend and colleague Ian Dibell.

“Once they stepped onto the pitch the match was typically competitive, but ultimately the occasion was about remembering Ian and celebrating his life."