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'Togo' Bolesworth, boxer & hero
One of the most remarkable figures to emerge from the history of the Leicestershire Regiment
is Sgt Sydney 'Togo' Bolesworth DCM, of Hinckley. Born in a cottage in Spring Gardens in 1889, young Sydney began his working
life in a hosiery factory aged just 13. He was a well built young man who enjoyed boxing. When, three years later, he decided
to join the army, he found that boxing was looked upon very favourably. He was posted to the 2nd battalion Leicestershire
Regiment in India, and in 1908 won the All-India title at welter weight. The following year he won the title again, as a middle
weight. Returning home in 1912 he boxed across the midlands gaining a fearsome reputation. In 1914 he knocked out Billy Sherwood
to win a purse of £100.
Later that year upon the outbreak of war Bolesworth was recalled to the
colours and in 1915 with the 1st battalion he was awarded the DCM for bravery in the field. In 1916 whilst serving in England
he was accused of manslaughter following a fight with another soldier. However a group of officers from the Leicestershire
Regiment paid for a barrister to conduct his defence. He was subsequently acquitted, and the judge in the case subsequently
apologised to him for the fact that a man of his good character should have been detained. Togo returned to France, and
was killed in action in 1917. The origin of his nickname is unknown.
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