Unsung Heroes - Pat and Roy Richardson

Each week we pay homage to a boxing ‘unsung hero’. The lifeblood of the sport - the men and women who have contributed so much and asked for so little, who have saved lives and transformed futures.

This week, it's two for the price of one as we highlight the selfless work of Pat and Roy Richardson. Nominated by Collyhurst and Moston ABC's Thomas McDonagh, we decided to get the lowdown on all they've done for amateur boxing from their granddaughter and former commonwealth champion, Stacey Copeland.

"Grandad started our gym as Bredbury Steelworks 44 years ago," Stacey said. "They moved into the place we're at now and just in the last three years we've changed the name from Bredbury and Stockport [ABC] to the Roy Richardson Boxing Academy.

"My nan, initially her role was predominantly organising everything. They've organised trips to New York, Cuba, incredible places for kids who'd never been out of the local area. Granddad taught a few of the boxers to read and some of them have stayed with them when they've fallen on hard times.

"They've done a lot around boxing, but it's what they've done for people and the community, particularly young people, that is quite amazing."

Watch the full interview with Stacey below to find out more about the inspirational story of Pat and Roy Richardson.

Nominate your boxing unsung hero via… twitter: @maverickstars1 / Instagram: maverickstarstrust or our website: www.maverickstars.co.uk

 

Unsung Heroes – Pat and Roy Richardson