Ex-heavyweight boxer Rob Beech, from West Park, died on Saturday at his home in Upholland after an accidental fall.

He leaves behind his beloved eight-year-old son Logan who is described as “his daddy’s double”.

Rob was well-known across St Helens for his involvement in professional boxing, as well as other sports with MMA and rugby league also among those he was involved with.

He fought against future world champion Tony Bellew during his amateur days.

Since Rob’s death, there have been hundreds of memorial messages posted on social media, with others commenting on his “kind heart” and how the business owner and entrepreneur was a “friend to many”.

His passing has led to a flurry of tributes from the boxing and sporting community.

Among those to pay tribute was Gary Crickson, owner of Forge Fitness gym in Rainhill, first met Rob at Chloe’s bar on Duke Street.

Rob told him he was looking for a boxing coach and then went on to train at Gary’s gym, which began their friendship.

In a tribute, Gary said in a post on Facebook: “From the alpha to the Omega.

I love you son Rob Beech please please please leave a light on in heaven for me xx”.

Rob Beech (Image: Stock)

Gary added: “Rob was generous, he always looked after everyone, he was loyal and a good friend.

“He was always genuine and had a big heart”.

Meanwhile, Sean Martin, owner of Hamma gym on North Road, added: “One of my best mates in life and I loved being your coach and friend for the last 20 years Rob Beech I love you lad and I will miss you everyday your
heart broken ! Coach and friend Sean”.

Rob, with Gary (Image: Facebook)

Dex Nelson added: “I’m broken to hear the sad news of Rob Beech passing, good mate from the bars & seen him every day at the garage, tormented me to death this guy always right with me, feels going out to that kid family & friends, rest easy big man”.

Also, Tony Bebbington, Liverpool-based BJJ coach, said: “Absolutely devastated to hear this sad news. Big Rob Beech was one of my ex-students.

“Sitting here and can’t really believe am writing this. Thoughts and prayers to everyone who knew Rob.”