BOXERS are teaming up to raise £4,000 for a new belt after a former champion “suffered in silence” for 50 years.

Dai Dower MBE became the flyweight champion of Britain, Europe and the Empire during the 1950s.

But he no longer has his most prized memento – his Lonsdale Belt.

Boxers get to keep their Lonsdale Belt if they become British champion and defend the title twice.

Dai, originally from Wales, defended his once but had to do his national service. He was told he would be the first challenger when he came back out.

But thanks to political manoeuvring outside the ring, he never got that fight, and retired 17 months later.

Bournemouth ex-Boxers Association has so far raised £2,600 towards a replica.

Member John Dickinson, a Charminster resident, said: “For more than 50 years Dai suffered in silence.

“Bright as a button, and straight as they come, he is an inspirational figure.”

The biggest fight of Dai’s career was a first round loss to the Argentinian world champion Pascual Perez.

He retired aged only 25 with a record of 34 wins and three losses and a reputation as a fast and skilful fighter.

He went on to teach sport at Ringwood School and Bournemouth University.

Dai, 78, of Talbot Woods, told the Echo: “When I heard I was thrilled to bits.

“I was just amazingly excited the boys would do as much as that for me.”

His eyes lit up as he explained: “It will be nice hanging on my dining room wall!”

Dave Fry, 63, a former heavyweight from Ferndown, said: “We didn’t realise he didn’t have a belt until last year.

“We asked him to come along and display it at an event – but it turned out he didn’t have one.”

The association’s next fundraiser is on July 9 at West Parley Sports and Social Club.

To donate or help with fundraising call Dave on 01202 891725 or John Dickinson on 01202 511219 or email dickinson.j3@sky.com.