CCPR sacks Lawson

Sports politics

Peter Lawson, general secretary of the Central Council of Physical Recreation, has been dismissed for "gross misconduct" after a three-month investigation into allegations of financial irregularity and improper conduct.

Lawson had held the position since 1971. His son, Christopher, the council's senior development officer, has also been sacked.

A CCPR statement said: "Many of the allegations related to the activities of a company, Sport and Leisure Communications Ltd (SLC), of which Peter and Christopher Lawson were the sole directors and shareholders. Following an extensive investigation, and in the absence of a satisfactory explanation as to the allegations against them, the disciplinary inquiry resulted in the dismissal of both for gross misconduct."

The inquiry was conducted by the council's chairman, Robert Pettigrew, and deputy chairman, Keith Smith. They worked throughout with forensic accountants and solicitors.