A “true legend” of the boxing world has died at the age of 63.

Jimmy Oliver, who trained some of the sport’s rising young stars at Finchley Boxing Club, passed away on Saturday.

The trainer worked with big names including Anthony Joshua, Derek Chisora and Darren Barker at the New Barnet club, where he was heavily involved for more than 50 years.

Later in his career, he devoted much of his time to coaching young children at the club and nurturing an interest in boxing among the next generation.

The father-of-three came from a family with a rich boxing heritage and he and his brother Johnny became world renowned for their work at the north London club over the past five decades.

Jimmy’s sons Danny and Spencer both boxed, the latter becoming European champion before being forced to retire after he was nearly killed in the ring.

More than 2,000 people from the boxing world have sent messages of condolence to Jimmy’s brother and family since he passed away on Saturday.

He grew up in Sunny Way, North Finchley, before moving to Finchley Road in Temple Fortune later in life.

His family say the “modest” trainer deserves recognition for his work in the sport.

Johnny, 68, said: “Every champion that came out of Finchley Boxing Club, Jimmy was involved in. We were just churning out champions year after year.

“He loved working with kids. He just loved boxing.

“Once you get the bug it never leaves you and that was the case with Jimmy – our whole family is steeped in boxing history.

“He didn’t like publicity and was very modest, but he deserves to be recognised for what he achieved in boxing – he was a true legend of the sport.”

A date for Jimmy's funeral is yet to be arranged but details will be released by the family shortly.

Did you know Jimmy? Contact the news desk on 07824 530136 to pay tribute.