Tributes are being paid to Liverpool boxing legend Tommy Bache, who is being remembered for a single, selfless act that saved one of the city's most cherished community buildings, The Florence Institute, from irreversible decay.
The Florrie, a historic institution in Toxteth, announced the passing of its former member and champion on September 25, crediting Bache's intervention in the late 1980s as the sole reason the landmark building stands today.
Key Takeaways
- Liverpool boxing champion Tommy Bache has passed away, prompting tributes from the community.
- Bache is credited with saving The Florence Institute (The Florrie) in 1988 by personally funding the securing of the building after its closure.
- He was a decorated amateur boxer with 283 contests and a silver medal at the 1958 Commonwealth Games.
- The Florrie's community garden was named in his honour in 2020 to recognise his crucial contribution.
A Decisive Act of Preservation
In 1988, The Florence Institute on Mill Street, a cornerstone of the Toxteth community for generations, was forced to close its doors. The building faced an uncertain future and was vulnerable to vandalism and dereliction.
It was at this critical moment that Tommy Bache, who had spent his childhood at the institute, took decisive action. At his own personal expense, he arranged for the doors and windows of the ground floor to be tinned up, securing the building from immediate threats.
In a statement, The Florrie described the importance of his intervention.
"Without this single selfless act, The Florrie would not be here today. To us, one of Tommy’s greatest achievements was saving our community’s biggest asset, The Florrie."
Bache himself later expressed regret that he was unable to secure financial assistance to protect the upper floors, which subsequently suffered from vandalism. However, his initial efforts ensured the core structure remained intact, providing a foundation for its eventual restoration.
The Florence Institute's Origins
The Florence Institute was one of the first boys' clubs in Britain. It was built in the late 1800s by Sir Bernard Hall, a former Lord Mayor of Liverpool and a prominent merchant. He founded the institute in memory of his daughter, Florence, who died suddenly at the age of 22.
A Distinguished Boxing Career
Long before he became the guardian of The Florrie, Tommy Bache was a formidable figure in the boxing ring. Known as the 'Demolition Man', his amateur career began when he was just nine years old.
He competed in an outstanding 283 contests, recording very few defeats. His talent led him to represent his country on numerous occasions, culminating in a significant international achievement.
In 1958, Bache won a silver medal at the British Empire and Commonwealth Games held in Cardiff, competing at fly-weight. He made his professional debut two years later, in 1960.
Fact: In a previous interview, Bache recalled his deep connection to The Florrie, stating he won the institute's 'Best Member Cup' four times as a child. He boxed as an amateur representing The Florrie before going on to compete for England Schoolboys.
A Lasting Community Legacy
Tommy Bache's connection to The Florrie was lifelong. He was a regular visitor to the restored building, and in 2020, the institution formally recognised his contribution in a permanent way.
The Florrie's community garden was officially named in his honour, ensuring his legacy is remembered by every new generation that passes through its doors. Following the news of his passing, the institute expressed its deep sympathy for his family.
A Family of Fighters
A passion for boxing runs deep in Tommy Bache's family, creating a multi-generational legacy in the sport. His grandson, Blaine Hyland, has followed in his footsteps as a boxer.
Blaine’s father, John Hyland, also had a distinguished career. He represented Great Britain at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. His amateur career included around 160 contests, a Commonwealth Federation gold medal in 1983, and two ABA bantamweight titles.
The Florrie's Cultural Impact
Beyond its role as a youth club and boxing venue, The Florrie has been a significant cultural hub in Liverpool for over a century. It is where a young Gerry Marsden learned to play guitar and formed his first skiffle group before finding global fame.
The main hall was a renowned venue for boxing events, featuring appearances by legends such as Alan Rudkin and John Conteh. It also hosted popular dances where many local couples first met.
Last year, the institution celebrated its 135th anniversary, a milestone made possible by the foresight and generosity of community champions like Tommy Bache. His actions in 1988 ensured that The Florrie's story did not end, allowing it to continue serving the people of Liverpool.