Stalwart boxing coach Ken Blood has died.
The former Doncaster Plant Works ABC coach passed away last night following a lengthy battle with illness.
Ken, who was made an MBE in 2010 and was recently honoured at the 2014 Doncaster Pride Awards, became a “father figure” to hundreds of youngsters in the borough who turned their hand to boxing.
The former policeman first put on the gloves aged 14, represented the force at the European Police Championships before hanging up his gloves and taking up coaching at the Plant Works in 1971.
Former Doncaster sports journalist Steve Hossack recently wrote a glowing citation of Ken ahead of the Pride Awards.
“Ken, whose enthusiasm for the sport knows no bounds, has cemented the club’s reputation throughout the UK,” wrote Steve.
“The club has helped produce a number of boxers who have either won prestigious natonal titles or gone on to box professionally over the years.
“Ken has never been one to just bask in the reflected glory of such boxers, and over the years has been just as delighted to see one of his run-of-the-mill youngsters pick up their first win.
“A father figure to many disadvantaged youngsters over the years and irrespective of their record in the ring during their time at the club, the vast majority turned out to be better citizens than would otherwise have been the case.”
Funeral arrangements have yet to be finalised.
Anyone wishing to pass on their condolences can contact Ken’s wife June on 01302 880857.