Lawrence “Larry” Gains Memorial Fund

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The Gains Heritage Foundation

The Gains Heritage Foundation celebrates unsung sporting figures through statues, plaques, and exhibitions, promoting culture, heritage, and education while inspiring communities and highlighting their lasting social impact with accuracy and respect.

Join us on Sunday 14th June 2026 at the Naval &amp; Military Social Club, 20 Royal Terrace, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1DU, for a special event celebrating the life and legacy of Larry Gains (1900&ndash;1983), pioneering Canadian heavyweight boxer, talented musician, and Second World War veteran, remembered for his strong connection to Southend-on-Sea. Event Details <ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Doors Open: 1:30pm</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Event Start: &nbsp;1:45pm</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Event Finish: 3:00pm</li></ul> What to Expect An engaging afternoon of history, music, and family-friendly activities, including: <ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">A special exhibition exploring Larry Gains&rsquo; remarkable life</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Live music by Dave Octave, performing Rat Pack&ndash;style swing classic&#39;s</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Children&rsquo;s activities, including designing and colouring their own boxing gloves and discovering fun facts</li><li fr-original-style="font-weight: bold;" style="font-weight: bold; box-sizing: inherit;">A raffle with fantastic prizes</li></ul> Larry Gains famously performed along the seafront with his hotel band, the Canadian Kings of Swing, in the 1930s, and returned to sing again during the 1950s. He also performed at the Minerva pub, once located next to the Kursaal, as part of a trio, with Larry on the drums. His connection to Southend-on-Sea is commemorated with a blue plaque at the Shoeburyness Hotel, unveiled in 2024. Special Guest Speakers <ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Larry Gains&rsquo; great-grandsons</li><li fr-original-style="font-weight: bold;" style="font-weight: bold; box-sizing: inherit;">Additional guest speakers to be announced</li></ul> Special Appearance <ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Brian Dear, West Ham United hero of the 1965 European Cup Winners&rsquo; Cup</li></ul> Tickets &amp; Entry Adult Ticket (17+): &pound;6 Child Ticket (Ages 5&ndash;16): &pound;1 Children under 5: Free All children must be accompanied by a paying adult. At checkout, Zeffy may suggest an optional tip to support their platform. This tip does not go to The Gains Heritage Foundation and is completely optional, you can select &ldquo;Other&rdquo; and enter &pound;0 if you prefer. Supporting a Lasting Legacy Our first initiative is the Larry Gains Memorial, dedicated to raising awareness of his remarkable life and achievements through events, educational outreach, and fundraising activities that celebrate his legacy and inspire future generations. A memorial statue in Leicester is planned, with ongoing fundraising to support its development and completion. By attending, you are helping to preserve Larry Gains&rsquo; legacy and contribute to this lasting tribute. With Thanks to Our Sponsors &amp; Supporters<ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">C2C Railway Ltd</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Shoeburyness Hotel</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Base Fire &amp; Security</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">The Hope Hotel&nbsp;</li></ul> Book Now Be inspired by the life, achievements, and legacy of Larry Gains, &nbsp;book your tickets now. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Contact &amp; Charity Information Presented by The Gains Heritage Foundation For enquiries: <a fr-original-style="" href="mailto:thegainsheritagefoundation@gmail.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="text-decoration-color: initial; -webkit-user-select: auto; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">thegainsheritagefoundation@gmail.com</a> Follow us on Facebook for updates: The Gains Heritage Foundation Registered Charity No. 1216359

Discover the Life and Legacy of Larry Gains in Southend-on-Sea

Join us for &ldquo;The Life and Legacy of Larry Gains&rdquo;, an inspiring evening celebrating one of boxing&rsquo;s most remarkable pioneers. Presented by The Gains Heritage Foundation in partnership with Leicester Unity Boxing Club, this special event will explore Larry Gains&rsquo; extraordinary journey, from his rise in professional boxing to his lasting impact on the sporting and cultural life of Leicester. The evening will feature special talks from Larry&rsquo;s great-grandsons, alongside other guest speakers, who will share personal reflections on his life, achievements, and enduring legacy. There will also be a presentation on the Larry Gains Statue Campaign in Leicester, highlighting ongoing efforts to honour his contribution to the city. Guests will have the opportunity to view a dedicated exhibition showcasing key moments from Gains&rsquo; boxing career and his life beyond the ring. The programme will also include a live performance by artist Dave Taylor, performing his tribute song &ldquo;Clean Break&rdquo;, inspired by Larry Gains&rsquo; story. There will also be a raffle on the night, giving attendees the chance to win special prizes, while supporting the continued work to honour Larry Gains&rsquo; legacy. Come along to learn&nbsp;more about who Larry Gains was,&nbsp;a champion in the ring and a man whose impact reached far beyond boxing into the heart of the Leicester community. Celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire generations. Free entry &ndash; limited availability.Doors open at 5:45 PM, and the event starts at 6:00 PM. 30 tickets are available online, and 20 tickets will be available on the door, issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is recommended.

The Gains Heritage Foundation

The Gains Heritage Foundation

Past events

Past events

Discover the Life and Legacy of Larry Gains in Southend-on-Sea

The Life and Legacy of Larry Gains

More ways to support us

The life and Legacy of Larry Gains

Get your tickets

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The Gains Heritage Foundation

Past events

Past events

Discover the Life and Legacy of Larry Gains in Southend-on-Sea

The Life and Legacy of Larry Gains

More ways to support us

The life and Legacy of Larry Gains

Get your tickets

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The Gains Heritage Foundation