South Yorkshire Times, April 4th, 1970
Harry Carpenter Will Commentate on Tape in ‘Iron’ Play
Mexborough’s Iron Hague, one-time English Heavyweight Champion, takes to the ring again this weekend when his title fight against Gunner Moir is recreated as part of the town’s second annual Festival of One-Act Plays.
The fight – which lasts for only two minutes and 47 seconds – forms part of a new play which traces Hague’s career from his school days in Mexborough to his death in 1951.
The play has been written by Geoff. Sargieson who recently produced a radio documentary dealing with the life and times of Iron Hague. It is to be presented at the festival by Demanton Experimental Theatre.
Swinton Boxers’ Aid
Also taking part are members of Swinton Canal Tavern boxing club, local singer Tony Capstick and – on tape – boxing commentator Harry Carpenter. Carpenter will be commentating the title fight as members of the boxing club recreate each move of ‘Iron’ Hague’s finest hour.
Much of the research for the play was carried out at the “South Yorkshire Times” office in Station Road. To collect his material, author Geoff. Sargieson, combed hundreds of back numbers of the “Times”’ from 1904 to 1951.
Some of the play’s dialogue has been taken verbatim from reports of the day, including a scene set in the Bull’s Head at Mexborough on the night of Hague’s return from his victory at the National Sporting Club.
The festival is being staged at Mexborough Technical College on Sunday evening. Other groups taking part include Rawmarsh and Parkgate Youth Club, Mexborough Theatre Guild and the Green Room Club.
They will be competing for the “Times” cup -which last year went to Aston Woodhouse Youth Club – the Citizens Trophy, at present held by Demanton, and Mexborough Council’s Chairman’s Cup.
Presenting and commentating at the festival, which starts at 6pm on Sunday, will be Miss G. Walford, director of Sheffield Playhouse Company’s Theatre Vanguard.