McGuigan and Richie help KO cancer
A glove signed by two of the greatest names in Irish boxing history will go under the hammer in Richie Woodhall's next charity auction.
The Telford boxing hero is auctioning a glove signed by Barry McGuigan and Steve Collins to raise funds for Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Support.
McGuigan, known as the Clone Cyclone, was both the WBA and lineal featherweight world champion from 1985-6.
Collins, nicknamed Celtic Warrior, claimed the WBO super-middleweight crown after a memorable win over Chris Eubank in March 1995, and held the title until his retirement in 1997. He later appeared in the film Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels as a bouncer at a gym.
Richie got the pair to sign the glove at a sportsmen's dinner in Cannock on St Patrick's Day, and is also throwing in a signed programme from the event as part of the lot.
The glove and the programme will go under the hammer at Halls auctioneers in Shrewsbury on May 1.
Richie, a former world super-middleweight title holder himself, has raised thousands of pounds for cancer charities in Shropshire in memory of his father Len.
Len, who was well known as a boxing trainer in Telford, died from prostate cancer in 2015, aged 75.
Pleased
It is the third time Richie has raised money for the Pink Ribbon charity, which provides equipment for the breast cancer unit at Telford's Princess Royal Hospital.
Chairman Tracey Watkins said the money would be used to provide the ward with computer tablets to help patients with their treatment.
The charity has previously handed over £15,000 for a new biopsy machine at the ward. It also opened a 'patient reflection room' which gives breast-cancer patients a quiet place to contemplate and discuss their diagnosis.
"We're very pleased he's helping us again, especially after he's helped us before," Mrs Watkins added.
Richie said: "I'm delighted to help again, it's a fantastic charity.
"They are marvellous people who do so much good work. What they do should get more publicity."
He also thanked Halls for its support with his fundraising efforts.
The auction will take place at Halls' auction house in Bowmen Way, Battlefield, Shrewsbury, starting at 10am. The items will be available for viewing the day before the auction, as well as on the morning itself.
People unable to attend in person can place an absentee bid by telephoning 01743 450700 before the auction, indicating the maximum amount they are prepared to bid. The auctioneer will then be able to bid on your behalf.
Alternatively, it is possible to bid live over the internet, by registering on the-saleroom.com/halls – it is advisable to do this at least a day before the auction takes place.
