Boxing Cup set up in memory of Peter Russell
Boxing club that Peter Russell ‘gave his life to’ plans annual tournament in his memory
Published: 7 May, 2010
by JAMIE WELHAM
A BOXING cup is to be set up in memory of community activist Peter Russell at the youth club he “gave his life to”.
Mr Russell, who lived in Maida Vale and served as chairman of the Westminster North Police Community Consultative Group for more than 20 years, was 80 when he died at home last month after a long battle against emphysema.
Friends and colleagues from the Stowe youth centre in Harrow Road, where Mr Russell was a trustee and regularly pulled on a pair of gloves to help in the club’s ring, have launched a fundraising drive with the Metropolitan Police to sponsor a boxing cup in his name.
It is hoped the cup will be given out every year on August 19, his birthday.
Michael Dipple, senior youth worker and head of boxing at the club, described Mr Russell as “a legend” among youngsters for his no-nonsense advice and tireless work ethic.
“Peter was a very giving person,” Mr Dipple said. “He didn’t suffer fools gladly, and he knew how to get stuff done, but he was very kind and all the youngsters loved him. I’m not saying things are bad now, but he was from an era that doesn’t exist any more – you know, he had proper manners.
“He was a big believer in boxing. I think he liked the camaraderie of it, its ability to bring people together and set people straight. In the early days he would be on the door taking the subs, making the boys stand up straight, that kind of thing.
“In a weird way I think the Stowe kept him alive for so long.
“We will all miss him greatly.”
Mr Russell’s funeral at St Mary’s Church in Paddington Green, was attended by members of the police force, including Borough Commander Simon Bray.Speaking at the funeral, he said: “Peter Russell was one of our longest-serving associates, friends, constructive critics and advisers and was passionate about policing in Westminster.
“As well as being hospitable, enthusiastic and knowledgeable, he was, as I quickly came to realise, very supportive of the Met, had a feel for the difficulties we faced and had formed a view about the sort of policing he was after.
“As a sometimes plain-speaking critical friend, willing to share advice, experience and an understanding of local issues, Peter provided helpful and valuable feedback.
“We all appreciated his dedication to policing issues and the way he worked with us – he was certainly a man you could do business with.
“When you think of policing and North Westminster, it’s very hard not to think of Peter Russell and the incredible impact he has had over the years. He was passionate about this area, passionate about the way it was policed and a dedicated public servant and member of the community.
Jasna Badzak, a member of the North Westminster police community consultative group and close friend of Mr Russell said: “He was the nicest person. I knew and he was a true friend. He was an inspiration and a gentleman and I’m going to miss him so much.”