Hope and Glory in Birmingham by Kevin Taylor Sep 15th 2007

Sixty-seven years on from one of the most critical events in World War Two, tonight PJ Rowson, in conjunction with the London and Midlands Ex-Boxers' Associations, hosts a star-studded show appropriately called 'Hope and Glory'. On 15 September 1940, two massive waves of German attacks were decisively repulsed by the RAF. The total casualties on this critical day were 60 German aircraft shot down versus only 26 RAF. The German defeat caused Hitler to order, two days later, the postponement of preparations for the invasion of Britain. Tonight at the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, the RAF Band will be on hand to provide some of the entertainment. Quite a coup, as there are only two RAF bands playing in the UK at the moment and the other will be at the Westminster Abbey to take part in a Battle of Britain ceremony. As well as commemorating the Battle of Britain, tonight's star-studded events, which is sponsored by Speedy Hire Plc some of the funds raised will go towards establishing an English Boxing Hall of Fame and many former British World champions will be at the event including Ken Buchanan, John Conteh, John H. Stracey, Alan Minter, Charlie Magri, Terry Marsh, Nigel Benn and Frank Bruno amongst others. Three title fights will be held despite there being two last minute pull outs. Baz Carey has withdrawn with an arm injury and Billy Smith will now fight Wolverhampton's Carl Allen for the Midlands Area title. Mark Lloyd's English title fight with Adnan Amar has also fallen through with Amar pulling out of the fight, instead now the unbeaten Lloyd will take on Vladimir Borovski for the International Masters title. Walsall's unbeaten prospect Martin Gethin takes on Derbyshire's Craig Johnson in a battle for the Midlands area title, in an effort to become a double champion after winning the vacant British Master's title last November. Promoter Rowson said "There are similar Halls of Fame all over the world - including Scotland - and it's time to honour the achievements of England's greatest boxers. "This unique event will help us to do that. This is going to be the biggest gathering of its kind ever held in this country. "There have never been so many British world champions at an event before and it promises to be an unforgettable night." It sure does, and BBN will be there to bring you all the gossip and of course results and coverage of the three fights.

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