FORMER OLYMPIC gold medallist Chris Finnegan was remembered at the unveiling of a blue plaque at Hayes Boxing Club, where he learnt his sport.

Finnegan MBE (1944-2009), born in Uxbridge, won the middleweight division in the Mexico Games of 1968.

His brother, Terence, introduced him to the club and he became lifetime president there in 1999.

Club vice-president Arthur Clements said: “The way the Olympics went this year has increased the number of people at the club but now, when young people go there and see it has produced a champion, there is even more excitement.

“It was certainly important to remember him as he was a role model for a lot of young boys, and sport managed to keep them from going astray.”

Council leader Ray Puddifoot said: “The borough is very proud to honour Chris in this way and it is hoped he will continue to be an inspiration to up-and-coming young boxers.”

This is the first blue plaque put up by Hillingdon Council that commemorates a sports personality.