AT a recent meeting at the Keystone Hall, Andover, the first under its new President Bob Briggs, the Probus Club of Andover enjoyed its usual excellent lunch and after inducting a new member, John Eadie, were treated to a fascinating talk by Paul Stickler, a retired senior police officer, on the A6 Murder.

Many of the members present had memories (perhaps even nightmares) about this particularly brutal event which unfolded on 22 August 1961. Michael Gregston and his girlfriend had parked in their car at Dorney Ridge when a man held them up at gunpoint, forced them to drive to North West London and then shot Gregston before subjecting his girlfriend to a serious sexual assault.

Though in those days forensic science was not as advanced as it is today the discovery of the car, a revolver and ammunition together with evidence by the girlfriend (who miraculously survived six bullet wounds) lead to the arrest of James Hanratty who, on being found guilty and whose appeal against the sentence failed, was later hanged.

A later attempt to clear his name failed when in 2000 DNA evidence proved that he was indeed the murderer. An example of meticulous police work that today we tend to take for granted.

The next meeting of the club will take place on 22 May. Any Advertiser reader who might be in search of a substantial lunch, a fascinating talk and some good company once a month should visit the Andover Probus’ web site or ring their membership secretary, Barrie Johnson, on 01264 337479.