Mersey's Fighting Finest by Geoff Roughton Dec 6th 2007

Spirit levels were high when families, friends, fans and former greats gathered for the launch of “The Mersey Fighters: Volume 2” book, written by Gary Shaw and Jim Jenkinson, at the Slaughter House pub, Liverpool on Monday 3rd December. The book launch saw over 20 of Merseyside's former and current boxing greats gathered together under one roof marking a memorable occasion for them and sporting fans. The pleasant banter and laughter of friends recalling old bouts fell to a quiet hush as Gary Shaw read out the fighting records of the boxers present. For those of us with a love of the sport and respect for the participants it was a humbling experience to be surrounded by so many that have given so much to the sport of boxing and a rare privilege. From Left: Steve Johnson (Prescot - middleweight), John Lyon MBE (St Helens - 8 ABA titles), Harry Scott 1960s middleweight, Brian Snagg with arm around (in green) Derry Matthews - Liverpool's reigning WBU featherweight champion of the world, behind Derry – the tall guy at the back is Tony Moran, just visible between Derry and Tony Moran (glasses) is Ray Gilbody (former British champion) and next to him at the back is Peter McCann. In front of Peter is Dave Kenny and next to him is John Farrell (fought Ray Gilbody for British title and fought Jeff Fenech), next to him at the back - in glasses, is Ray Shiel St Helens heavyweight, and in front of Ray is Tucker Hetherington. Crouching down is the secretary of the Merseyside Former Boxers Association and co-author of the book, Jim Jenkinson with co-author Gary Shaw stood in the centre. Behind Gary's left shoulder is 1960 Olympic bronze medallist Jim Lloyd, next to him Jimmy Bunclarke. Holding the book is Kevin Pritchard former British champion, next to him Gary Thornhill former British champion. Next to him 1980 Olympian Joey Frost (laughing), next to him holding book at front is Alex Moon former Commonwealth champion, next to him Joey Moffat and at the end, turning away, is Gary Ryder former WBF champion of world. The book, a must have for boxing fans detailing over 60 biographies, is available from all good book shops price £9.99 or online at http://www.merseyfighters.co.uk/ Photos Geoff Roughton - Copyright 2007

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