DESPITE being the birthplace of a warrior king, Monmouth is not renowned for its fighters. Only once has the town produced a boxer of any note.

He was George Henry Pembridge, who reigned as Welsh middleweight champion for six months back in 1920. His story is to be included in a new book and the author needs help.

Cardiff-based journalist, Gareth Jones, has written four volumes in a series entitled ‘The Boxers of Wales’ and the next edition will cover Monmouthshire. As a local boy himself, he used to play cricket for Monmouth CC in the 1960s and 1970s, he is particularly keen to feature George.

“The problem is that I have no idea what happened to him after he retired from the ring in 1923,” says Gareth.

“I know he was born in December 1891 and lived with his parents, Charles and Charlotte, at 7 Chippenhamgate Street, until at least the 1911 Census, in which he was described as a butcher.

“But I can’t find any record of a death that might have been him, nor a marriage come to that.”

So it’s down to Beacon readers. If anybody can solve the mystery surrounding George’s later life, contact Gareth on 02920 343855 or email garethbox