Norman Close 23rd March 1935
How long have you been involved with boxing?
I have been involved with boxing since 1945
Who first got you involved?
My father he had boxed bantamweight in the army he made us do exercises before we went to school. After listening to fights on the radio it got me more interested.
Did you ever box and which clubs?
Yes I boxed ..St Johns Cowgate, St Patrick's army cadets Byker, Grainger Park and the Army.
How old were you when you had your first bout?
10 year old at St johns and won.
What was your record?
33 bouts won 31
What was your hardest bout?
J.McMahon he was from Stanley ABC he was Durham County national coal board champion in 1952, I lost on a majority.
Who was your inspiration when you boxed?
Billy Charlton good boxer professional fantastic coach. I sparred on Sunday mornings with the pro boxers, they boxed at St James Boxing Hall on Monday nights. The gym was on Askew Road Gateshead above Laws Stores they charged 2 shillings and 6 pence (2/6)
How old were you when you stopped boxing?
23 years old 1957 with back injuries due to a vehicle accident, spent 3 months in hospital in Munster Germany.
Did you ever coach and which clubs?
I coached at Grainger park, Coxlodge Fawdon and St Edwards Whitley bay
What or who got you involved in coaching?
Grainger Park Old Boys Committee.
In your opinion what makes a good coach?
Attire, clean at all times, athletic, fit, mental attitude, good attitude, good voice, technique should be practiced at speed, stance, balance, guard, footwork, defensive techniques, combination punching, ring craft, behaviour, conduct and discipline at all times. when your boxer has taken blows to the face and head, taken to much punishment throw the towel in.
Who was the best coach you worked with?
Kevin Hickey ABA national coach, Billy Charlton pro boxer and coach.
Who was the best boxer you coached and why?
This is a hard question as I've coached some great boxers but John Davison and Paul Tucker are two I will choose. they always had confidence and went in the ring to win.
What was your best experience as a coach?
One of the highlights of 1977 was the visit by Mohammed Ali at the Grainger Park Boys Club.
Training boxers and going into the ring win or lose, you must except decisions.
How long have you been an official?
Since 1981
What made you become and official?
In the early 70s I was asked by the divisions club coaches to stand as a member of the committee.
What attributes do you need to become an official?
Good eye sight, courage, good judgement on the punch hitting the target area. not to be biased.
What are the highs and lows of being a official?
When you have been a boxer it is great to be at the ringside as it brings back memories of when I boxed. the lows of being a official is when you have a bad decision.
 All the coaches should read the rules of boxing and  practice the application of the rules In sparing sessions, attend refresher seminars and courses, keep fit and have a sporting manner especially in competition

Muhammad Ali visits The Grainger Park boxing club
14th June 1977.
The greatest heavyweight of all times.