A GRANDFATHER who was one of the few men left to have professionally boxed before the Second World War has died.

Sid Nathan, who attended Jewish Care’s Edgware and Harrow Jewish Day Centre, in Stonegrove, Edgware, died aged 93 after a fall at his house, in Borehamwood.

After his boxing stint, he went on to become a renowned referee where he oversaw around 1,300 fights.

His career took him around the world and he visited Puerto Rico, Las Vegas and New York, where he worked alongside Frank Bruno, Joe Bugner and Nigel Benn.

Granddaughter Georgina Morelle said: “He was charming, quick-witted, and enthusiastic. The phrase ‘old fashioned gentleman’ was definitely coined for a man like my grandfather.”

“His health began to deteriorate in the last few months of his grand old age of 93, but his mental and physical vitality were nothing short of amazing.”

“He lived a full life, was an inspiration to many, and touched us all with his kind nature and great sense of humour.”

His wife, Lillian, died nine years ago but he found solace in the Jewish Care centre – and last year he told the Times Series he “couldn’t live without it”.

The couple had been childhood sweethearts and met at a dance more than 70 years ago.

He was given the chance to meet Prince William at Jewish Care’s 25th anniversary fundraising dinner at Alexandra Palace.

His four children and 11 grandchildren say he will leave behind a “legacy”.

Ms Morelle added: “He will always be our hero, our legend, our Poppa.”