BRADFORD Hockey Club celebrated 125 years with their annual dinner and presentation.

The event took place at Cedar Court Hotel and was preceded by an afternoon of men's hockey.

Former stars, current first team members and players from other men's teams all took part, with the first team running out victors come the end.

As day moved into night, club president Richard Sorton made a welcome address.

There was discussion of the changes the club had outlived historically since its inception - participation numbers, memorable results and the advances in playing conditions.

Then, it was a toast to the next 125 years, with awards handed out in-between courses.

A special anniversary programme was produced for the landmark event, which included a look at the merger between Bradford Hockey Club and Netherwood, as well as a message of congratulations from the chairman of Active Sport.

There were also a series of special messages delivered, including from the Yorkshire Umpires Association, England Hockey, Yorkshire Hockey Association, Yorkshire Hockey Youth League, University of Bradford Hockey Club and some local rivals.

Club legend Phil Thomas - who spent half a century at Bradford - also featured in that programme, to highlight his efforts in putting the city and club on the map of junior hockey.

Thomas organised the Yorkshire Youth League in 1990 with two other club members, and it is still growing to this day with support from many clubs across the region.

The club custodian has also served on club selection and management committees, while giving time to a number of youth development programmes locally and national as well over the years.

There was extra delight for the Welshman on the night too, as he received the new "Hall of Fame Award."

The honour of cake cutting at the end of the awards and dinner was given to the oldest and youngest female and male players in the senior teams.

A historical exhibition of photos, old playing shirts and memorabilia were on show throughout the evening which provoked much conversation among guests.

Finally, there was raffle with part of the money raised going to Myeloma UK which supports research into the blood plasma disorder.