Professional boxers in south Essex are hoping the new year will bring some good news on York Hall.

The east London fight venue is under threat of closure following a report by property consultants Hillier Parker.

Tower Hamlets Council is now considering what to do with the famous venue, which has been a mecca for amateur and pro boxing since 1929.

Happy times - John McDermott prepares to face Eamonn Glennon in one of his York Hall Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

The council is looking at two options, both of could see the end of boxing at the Bethnal Green building.

Leigh lightweight Danny Hunt and undefeated Horndon heavyweight John McDermott are hoping for a positive conclusion.

"It will be a big shame if it closes as it is the home of boxing," said Danny.

"York Hall is the last small hall venue for boxing in London and it will be gutting if it closes.

"Because I boxed at Repton Boys Club in Bethnal Green, I fought there as an amateur and won London titles at York Hall."

John McDermott will also be sad to see York Hall close.

"I have had 10 of my 14 fights at York Hall and have never lost there, so it's been a happy hunting ground for me," he said.

"It's only round the corner for me really and is my local venue. Wembley is much further."

Council chiefs claim maintenance and repair costs for the leisure centre currently stand at £600,000 a year and that York Hall needs major refurbishment.

"The building has quite simply outlived its lifespan and no longer fulfils the requirements of a modern leisure facility," said Tower Hamlets leisure services chief Ray Gerlach.

Published Friday, January 10, 2003

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