New HQ road will be ‘permanent reminder’ of murdered superintendent’s bravery

‘Gerry Richardson Way’ has become the name of the new access road to Lancashire Constabulary’s West Division HQ in Blackpool, in tribute to Superintendent Gerry Richardson who died in 1971.

Supt Richardson was fatally shot while responding to an armed robbery in the town, aged just 38.

Assistant Chief Constable Terry Woods said: “It is fitting that this road is named after Supt Richardson – a leader whose bravery we will never forget.

“The naming of this road will act as a reminder to our officers and the public of the sacrifice he made that day.

“It also acts as a stark reminder of the risks that our officers face on a daily basis in the course of their duties.”

On August 23, 1971, Supt Richardson and Police Constable Carl Walker attended a robbery on Blackpool’s The Strand that led to them pursuing the suspects on foot.

PC Walker was shot in the thigh before Supt Richardson was shot twice in the stomach at point-blank range.

The Blackpool-born officer died of his injuries later that day, while PC Walker went on to recover.

Both officers were awarded the George Cross in recognition of their bravery the following year.

Seven other officers involved in the incident also received gallantry awards including the George Medal and the Queen’s Commendation for brave conduct.

The five robbers were all convicted and sentenced to a combined total of 93 years in prison.

Supt Richardson’s killer, Fred Sewell, received a 30-year sentence for the murder.

He was released in 2001 aged 68.

Supt Richardson was a member of Blackpool North Rotary Club, which established the Superintendent Richardson Memorial Youth Trust in his honour.

Lancashire police and crime commissioner Clive Grunshaw said the new road will be a permanent reminder of “the courage our officers show daily in order to keep the people of Lancashire safe and out of harm’s way”.