Frank Hope, a Champion’s Surrender
Liverpool has contributed much to the UK, Europe and the world. Individuals have been the make-up of the city, persons who dreamed and gave their best to see dreams come true and along the way contributed to a city’s heritage and strength. Although much of its strength comes from millions of “no name” people of hard work, respect and family ties, many are notable and stand out.
The name “Frank Hope” is one which stands out in Liverpool’s lineage of sporting history. These days an active member of AC Mitchell Church of the Liverpool City Mission, Frank was recently named as one of “The 800” - the list of 800 people who “put Liverpool on the map.”
Frank was born in Liverpool in 1935. His father was a long-distance lorry driver and assisted in the war effort. From his pre-teen years he was interested in boxing, perhaps influenced by his dad who was secretary of the Crighton ABC. Frank followed his interest and joined the club, quickly developing a prowess and dedication to the sport. In 1950 he won the School Boys National Title in the Royal Albert Hall with Field Marshall Lord Montgomery presenting him the medal. He joined St.Theresa’s ABC with the notable Charlie Atkinson as his trainer. Boxing in the National ABA Youth Championships, Frank won the national title. Soon he boxed and won against international champion Maxie McCullough which earned him an invite to box in the British Olympic trials of 1952. Meanwhile he was working on the docks and later for Cammel Laird doing welding and pipe insulation engineering.
Frank then entered the Senior ABA Championships of 1953 and lost in the final by a few points a fantastic match with Les Morgan. Telegrams arrived and congratulations from various dignitaries on a “great fight.”
The year 1955 was massive for Frank. He and his mate Dave Rent (Bootle) entered Liverpool folklore as the first Liverpool boxers to win the ABA Seniors Middleweight and Light Heavyweight championship, winning at Wembley Stadium before a live TV audience. Later in 1955 he was selected for the British ABA team to box in an international tournament with the USA National Golden Gloves champions watched by millions on TV. Frank helped England to victory in what was a high point in British boxing history.
The name “Frank Hope” is one which stands out in Liverpool’s lineage of sporting history. These days an active member of AC Mitchell Church of the Liverpool City Mission, Frank was recently named as one of “The 800” -
Frank was born in Liverpool in 1935. His father was a long-
Frank then entered the Senior ABA Championships of 1953 and lost in the final by a few points a fantastic match with Les Morgan. Telegrams arrived and congratulations from various dignitaries on a “great fight.”
The year 1955 was massive for Frank. He and his mate Dave Rent (Bootle) entered Liverpool folklore as the first Liverpool boxers to win the ABA Seniors Middleweight and Light Heavyweight championship, winning at Wembley Stadium before a live TV audience. Later in 1955 he was selected for the British ABA team to box in an international tournament with the USA National Golden Gloves champions watched by millions on TV. Frank helped England to victory in what was a high point in British boxing history.
