Former Swinton boxer Ken Wyatt dies at 86

A WELL-known former boxer, serviceman and bouncer has died aged 86.

Ken Wyatt Senior, whose son is Swinton councillor Ken Wyatt, died last week at Rotherham General Hospital.

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Originally from Somerset, Mr Wyatt was well known in the South Yorkshire area as a former professional boxer who had a creditable amateur and professional career boxing at light heavyweight and heavyweight.  

Mr Wyatt was in the 1948 London Olympic Squad and was also well known for his work as a bouncer at the Mexborough Empress Ballroom during its heyday when it was visited by such acts as Lulu, Cilla Black, Cliff Richard and Screaming Lord Sutch.  

Mr Wyatt  also worked as a bouncer at the Rawmarsh Baths when the building was used as a dance hall.

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He was known as a gentle giant who would always seek to avoid trouble with revellers, but could always handle himself if required.  

At 17, he joined the Royal Air Force in 1941 and served in North Africa, France and Germany.  

Mr Wyatt’s working life was spent with utility companies such as electric, gas and finally Yorkshire Water.  

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He leaves a widow Hilda, a daughter Jane, and a son, Ken Wyatt Junior, and three grandchildren.

Mr Wyatt's funeral is expected to be held at the end of next week at Swinton St Margaret's Church.

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