On August 30, Superintendent Operations Crime HKI, Mr Karl Spencer, made a successful bid for the personalised car registration number "HAMMERS". Most overseas officers would instantly realise that this registration number is the nickname of the English Premier League football club "West Ham United", of which Mr Spencer is an avid fan.

Mr Spencer explained that West Ham United was originally founded in 1895 as Thames Ironworks FC, and the club crest consisted of two crossed rivet hammers, commonly used in the iron and shipbuilding industry. The name was changed to West Ham United in 1900, and supporters of the club coined the nickname the "Hammers" or the "Irons".

Mr Spencer had to wait six months before he was able to get his number, but said that it was well worth the wait, and the money. Not only is he able to show his support for his team, but it also gives him the opportunity to explain to local officers the significance of the name "Hammers".

SP Spencer is delighted at showing support for his favourite football club

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