Farewell to Master Albert

Albert was remembered fondly with a service at his home in Halls Mill, attended by family, friends and others from the worlds of horses and boxing - two of his greatest loves.

He was born in the magnificent surroundings of Elmfield castle just outside Gilford, and led what was described as an “idyllic” childhood.

The former President of the Irish Amateur Boxing Association, who had reached the grand age of 93 when he passed away, first took an interest in the sport aged eight, and went on to compete before officiating and eventually becoming a top-class referee in Ulster.

He earned the nickname “The Master” because he was seen as an accomplished master of the hounds and an expert horseman.

The nonagenarian continued refereeing to the age of 80, and one of his most memorable moments came when he refereed a match featuring 13-year-old Barry McGuigan who was making his amateur debut at the time.

Having helped to found the boxing club in Laurencetown, Albert has left a strong impression on the district and beyond, according to close friend and Secretary of Banbridge Boxing Club Anne Murphy

She said, “As President of Ulster IABA Albert was formative in making crucial changes which are still in place today - headguards, 10oz gloves and championship weigh-ins.

“Thats the kind of impact he had on the sport. He will be sadly missed.”

(Tributes on P8&9)

gentleman of integrity, honour and impeccable standards.”