Touch of the Irish from Barry McGuigan

The former WBA featherweight champion of the world enthralled the audience in the 300-capacity Premier Suite on Thursday night, writes Craig Birch.

'The Clones Cyclone' entered the room to his signature entrance tune, 'Danny Boy,' which his dad Pat used to belt out as he made his way to the ring.

His late father, who died in 1987, was a famous Irish vocalist who came fourth at the 1968 Eurovision Song Contest and released his own rendition of the song.

This time Wayne Scott did the honours and was namechecked at the start of McGuigan's speech, where he complimented him "doing it justice."

The 55-year-old regaled spectators with tales from his amateur and pro career, which saw him become one of the biggest drawing boxing attractions of the 1980s.

Republic of Ireland born McGuigan also became a symbol for peace during the Troubles in his homeland, fighting against discrimination.

He refused to pick a side all through the conflict, having also came a British citizen to challenge and win the British title.

Despite being a Roman Catholic, he married a Protestant, Sandra. They remain wed to this day and have four children.

Laughs came from funnyman Mike Cash who, like McGuigan, is from Clones. He was once described by Bernard Manning as "one of the best comedians I have come across."

Among the guests were fellow former British champions PJ Gallagher, Neville Brown and Tony Wilson, the latter the last Lonsdale belt contender to hail from Wolverhampton.

McGuigan, who now lives in Kent, said: "It's lovely to know I am well remembered and, no matter how old you get, it's nice to have your ego massaged every now and again.

"I've been to the West Midlands loads of times, for a number of reasons, and it's great to see some old faces again.

"Neville Brown and Tony Wilson I know from when I was fighting and PJ Gallagher came all the way up to Cannock from Welwyn Garden City.

"He had the same problem as me, being in the car from 5pm battling through the traffic!"

McGuigan's son Shane, who is a boxing coach, and his protege Carl Frampton are the next after-dinner attractions in the Premier Suite on Thursday March 2.

Frampton became Northern Ireland's first two-weight world champion in July, by beating the undefeated Leo Santa Cruz on points for the WBA 'super' featherweight crown.

The unbeaten 29-year-old, from Belfast, must first defend his newly-won strap in a rematch against Santa Cruz at the MGM Grand Garden Centre in Paradise, Nevada, on January 28.

Bar Sport owner Scott Murray and a number of the regulars are planning a trip to the United States to watch him in action.

For more information and to book places for the Frampton show in the Premier Suite, get in touch with Bar Sport directly by calling 01543 572 092.