Islington BC founder member Ron Hagland has been honoured with a platinum ‘keystone award’ to mark his 40 years of voluntary service to amateur boxing.

Hagland, 82, who is still Islington’s honorary secretary and life vice-president, received the award at the Essex Boys and Girls Club annual dinner event on Friday.

He played an instrumental role in the establishment of the club – which was originally known as Kings Cross ABC and based at York Way Court Community Centre – in 1974.

Hagland originally worked as a fundraiser at the club, but soon took over as secretary – and also became treasurer after the passing of Jim Parodi in 1983.

He retired in 2000, selling up his scrap metal business and moving with wife Maureen to Frinton-on-Sea, Essex, but has continued to visit the Hazellville Road club and attend committee meetings once a month.

The club has continued to blossom with the help of Hagland’s son Lenny, who is now chairman and day-to-day manager, while grandson Reggie is also heavily involved there.

Reggie said: “Grandad was very surprised at receiving his award and in typical fashion all he had to say was ‘Cor, that weren’t bad – didn’t expect it’.”