England women's rugby winger Emily Cook (ne Feltham). K6478P9Mike Turner salutes the role of sport in our community

THROUGHOUT the years, The Journal has recognised the important role sport plays within the community.

From school sports days to appearances by local stars at international venues around the world, the newspaper has recorded the many success stories.

As well as producing a host of sporting superstars over the years, Salisbury and the surrounding area often attracts world beaters.

Saints and England footballer-turned racehorse trainer Mick Channon is a local lad. David Elsworth, trainer of racing legends Desert Orchid and Persian Punch, is based at Fordingbridge and both are regular visitors to Salisbury Racecourse where top jockeys Pat Eddery and Frankie Dettori often compete.

Equestrian stars frequent horse trials staged on our doorstep, while sporting royals are among those taking part at polo events at Ansty and Tidworth.

South Wilts Cricket Club's Wilton Road ground has welcomed top notch players throughout the years and the superb golf courses on our patch continue to draw the sport's greats.

A quirk of fate has ensured that Salisbury is at the epicentre of the sport of powerlifting. The legendary Bill West has claimed 14 world titles, but is just one of a handful of local international stars in the sport.

Salisbury City FC's fortunes have been well documented. The Journal was out in force in November 2003 when the club did the city proud in the First Round of the FA Cup at Hillsborough, home of former footballing giants Sheffield Wednesday.

And bringing us right up to date, one of the city's most famous sporting sons, Richard Hill, played his part in England's triumph in the Rugby World Cup in Australia. Here's to many more sporting moments to remember.