Ernie Longhurst, who for more than 50 years was involved in the sport of boxing, died recently from cancer at the age of 70.

A missed opportunity to fight in the Olympics was a bitter blow for Ernie but there were plenty of highlights.

The well-liked personality, who lived in Dartford, was one of five brothers who were all involved in amateur boxing during the mid-60s.

Boxing out of the Fitzroy Lodge club in London, he fought for England several times and while on National Service was also crowned Army champion. Ernie was also a top athlete in his youth, running for the Dartford Harriers.

His chance to box on the biggest stage, at the Tokyo Olympics in 1964, eluded him, however, as a cut to his eye from a previous fight meant he was unable to train with the British squad.

Son Ricky, followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming Kent champion in the 80s.

Ricky said of his father: "He was just proud to have represented his country. At the time, it was the golden era in boxing and to represent your country then in the sport was something special."