York Hall in Bethnal Green is the only remaining small hall in London, representing the traditional venues that were prevalent for over a century. Although it didn’t host its inaugural professional tournament until 1967, it has now become the UK’s most renowned location in the sport. It is where aspirations are born and careers reach their conclusion.
During January 1950, London offered various venues for witnessing professional boxing, typically hosting events either weekly or at least twice a month. The Manor Place Baths in Walworth, the Romford Road Baths in West Ham, the Caledonian Road Baths in Islington, the High Road Baths in Leyton, and the Lime Grove Baths in Shepherds Bush were among the locations that consistently organized boxing shows that month. These venues, alongside others, continued their regular boxing events throughout the early 1950s.
During the summer, one could enjoy outdoor entertainment at the Mile End Arena and the Merry Fiddler’s Sports Ground in Dagenham. However, the introduction of entertainment tax by the Government in 1952 greatly affected small hall promoters, resulting in fewer shows being held. Although some small halls managed to continue operating in the 1960s and 1970s, the frequency of shows significantly decreased. I personally know several individuals who have fond memories of regularly attending these venues in the early 1960s. They often reminisce about the high-quality boxing matches, the vibrant atmosphere, and the nostalgic sense of history that filled these cherished old establishments.
This week, I have included two photographs. One was captured at the Seymour Hall in Marylebone in 1953, while the other was taken at Manor Place Baths in Walworth a decade later. In the first image, we witness the moment when ex-British lightweight champion, Billy Thompson of Hickleton Main, successfully halted Harlow’s Johnny Fish in just five rounds. Although Fish appears bruised around his nose and mouth, he proved to be a resilient opponent, providing Thompson with plenty to contemplate throughout the evening.
I appreciate the photo for its inclusion of the ever-present camera, with its flash attachment protruding through the ropes. Many iconic ringside shots from 1950s America feature these cameras, which truly enhance the feeling of being in that specific time and place. Furthermore, on the balcony, one can spot a St John’s Ambulanceman enjoying the fight, while another can be seen a few rows behind the ringside area.
Chris Elliott of Leicester is captured in the 1963 photograph skillfully evading a powerful left jab thrown by the crowd-favorite boxer, Billy the Kid Davis. Despite this close call, Elliott emerged victorious in the match, winning by points. This picture perfectly captures the essence of witnessing boxing at the renowned venue. Sadly, on April 24, 1978, the venue closed its doors for the final time, with Ray Cattouse, Austin Oyoke, and Joey Singleton headlining the event with their eight-round bouts.
In the balcony, there are several elegantly attired spectators who appear to be genuine boxing enthusiasts. Mike Barrett, the promoter at Walworth during that period, was also involved in promoting events at the Grange Road Baths in Bermondsey and the Municipal Baths in Epsom. Together with Mickey Duff, Harry Levene, and Jarvis Astaire, Barrett became one of the key figures in British boxing in the 1970s. They were responsible for organizing the majority of major fights held at Wembley and the Royal Albert Hall.
In the 1970s, Manor Place Baths, York Hall, Seymour Hall, and the Town Hall at Shoreditch were all bustling venues. However, only York Hall stands today. If you haven’t witnessed boxing at this remarkable old establishment, I urge you to experience it. If York Hall disappears, London’s cherished connection to iconic venues like The Ring Blackfriars, Wonderland, and Premierland will be forever lost. It would be a truly sorrowful day.
