A local writer from Mapperley is part of the team behind the launch of a new guided walk celebrating the life of legendary Notts boxer Bendigo.
Alan Dawson, who also runs popular community Facebook page Mapperley People, will be one of the tour guides of The Bendigo Story.
Those joining the walk will get the chance to learn about the incredible life of William ‘Bendigo’ Thomson, the 19th century boxer who is undoubtedly Nottingham’s first sporting superstar. His story is told in a new guided walking tour in the City Centre.
Born into extreme poverty, his physique and agility as a prize-fighter brought him success. His outspoken character and record in the ring attracted a massive fan base, including Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who wrote about him. Bendigo went on to become the undefeated Champion of England and is credited with introducing the ‘southpaw’ boxing stance.
The Bendigo Story is led by trustees of the Bendigo Memorial Fund, who are campaigning for a new statue to honour him. The guided walk lasts approximately two hours, finishing at St Mary’s Church in the Lace Market. The Bendigo Story is registered with Visit Britain, the corporate website of the UK Tourism Industry.
Two tours are scheduled every weekend from 17th April and can be booked at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-bendigo-story-tickets-127381011033
Tours are currently limited to 5 guests. Private tours can be arranged by contacting the Bendigo Memorial Fund at bendigofund@gmail.com or message 07910663233.
Tour guide Alan Dawson said: “Our guided walk has taken a lot of planning but we feel it has been worth it. We can tailor the tour to different groups with specific interests. We are sure it will be of interest to locals and to people visiting Nottingham for a city break or sporting event”.
Tour guide Jevon Patrick said: “We’re so excited about this! We can’t wait to introduce people to a story that has been Nottingham’s hidden, little gem. We’re going to unravel a tale that would be fit for filmmakers in Hollywood – and it’s on the city’s doorstep!”
Ryan Walker-Drain, the chair of Bendigo Memorial Fund said: Thanks go to Alan and Jevon (the tour guides) for setting this up, The Bendigo Story will be a great way for visitors to learn about our first boxing superstar. It will also raise funds for our statue appeal.
Alan revealed that Bendigo also had a local link too.
“He often fought at the location of the Travellers Rest on Mapperley Plains,” he said.
