A FORMER world boxing champion from the North-East is being honoured tonight (Monday, November 24) with a special event commemorating the anniversary of his greatest fight.
It is 25 years since boxer Glenn McCrory defeated Patrick Lumumba on points at the Louisa Centre in Stanley, County Durham, to become the IBF Cruiserweight Champion of the World.
Friends from the world of sport and screen are gathering at the Hilton Hotel in Gateshead for the Variety event.
The children’s charity is presenting the grandfather-of-three with a Silver Heart, its highest accolade.
Mr McCrory, 50, who was born in Annfield Plain, said: “I am bit overwhelmed if I am honest and a bit flustered. Obviously, I am very, very happy and honoured and a bit humbled. It is a lovely thing.”
The former champ, who has recently become a father again to three week old son, Aidan, was joined by Darlington fighter Stuart Hall and British boxers Lloyd Honeyghan and John H Stracey.
McCrory is the latest in a line of North-East sporting heroes to receive the Variety Silver Heart award, following in the footsteps of the likes of Alan Shearer and Sir Bobby Robson.
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