Orpington & District ABC has a rich history dating back to 1962 when it was founded by Alfred James Reilly. The club has moved locations over the years, starting at St Josephs RC School in Orpington before settling at its current location in Pettswood. Our club has been a part of the Rosecroft Working Mans club, the Queens Head in Green st Green, and Tillingbourne Green. Throughout the years, the club has produced multiple England Boxing national champions.

During its golden era from 1962 to 1977, under the guidance of the brilliant coaches Peter Hughes and Ted Norris, Orpington & District ABC became one of the best boxing clubs in Kent and London. The club had the honor of having Eric Lubbock, who was the liberal MP for Orpington, as its president. Lubbock himself was an Oxford Blue boxer and even boxed for Orpington ABC at the civic centre to raise funds for the club in the 60s.

Under the leadership of Mick Spencer, who was the club coach in the 70s, Orpington ABC saw tremendous success. Spencer’s exceptional career led him to represent Great Britain and even receive a call to the Olympics. The club produced multiple national champions, including Mick Spencer, Johnny Hillman, Robert Mullholland, Jimmy Cable, Albert Hillman, Johnny Hillman, Alan Cable, and Ray Mason, among many others.

The fact that Eric Lubbock, a prominent political figure, served as the club’s president demonstrates the club’s reputation and standing within the community. Even today, Orpington & District ABC holds the record for the most national titles won by any club in the Borough.

For many, including myself, the Rosecroft Social Club holds a special place in our hearts as we watched these boxing greats spar. It is with great excitement that we announce the club’s reopening soon. The club’s legacy and commitment to producing champions will continue for many years to come.

The club is now based in Pettswood at Charworth Parade, affiliated with England Boxing, the only National governing body for amateur boxing in the UK.

The club is one of a kind in PettsWood, as it becomes a part of the official governing body established in 1890.

The club offers amateur boxing classes for all ages and abilities at subsidised affordable prices as well as 1-2-1 and recreational boxing.