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The Sussex town of Brighton was vulnerable to attack by the German Luftwaffe during the Second World War. The most damaging raid was on 25th May, 1943 when twenty-four bombers targeted the town. A few months later, as 1943 neared it’s end, Terence Ellingford was born. .
As a teenager his ambitions were not to wrestle but to become a youth worker. It was an ambition he was to pursue with some energy, completing a course at Brunel University and further courses in counseling young people. He was to go on to work with young people for thirty years.
So, what about the wrestling?
The fair came to Brighton and one of the side shows was a wrestling booth. Terry, who was wrestling as an amateur, went inside to watch a local wrestler, Ray Luxford. Also in the booth was Alec Taylor. Alec was an old school friend but the two hadn’t seen each other for some time. Catching up on each other’s news Terry told Alec of his interest in gymnastics and amateur wrestling.
Alec, who along with his brothers Tony and Patrick were starting out as wrestlers themselves, suggested that Terry gave the professional game a try. Easily persuaded Terry sought the help of Ray Luxford and began to learn the rudiments of professional wrestling under the guidance of Ray and Mel James, both terrific teachers Terry told us.
When the time was deemed right Terry made his professional debut, discarding his birth name and becoming Terry Cristel at the suggestion of his friend Alec Taylor. With so many wrestlers coming from Brighton Terry chose to be billed from the West Country. Ray Luxford promoted Terry’s first match and quite a few of his early ones. As he gained experience he became known to other independent promoters and often worked for Jackie Pallo. Amongst his most memorable opponents he named Ricky Silver and Ray Luxford.
Terry was a ringside fan at the Brighton Sports Stadium. His own favourite wrestlers were George Kidd, Julian Morice (who he was fortunate enough to work with), Jim Jim Breaks, Billy Robinson, and Colin Joynson.
Apart from wrestling and youth work Terry also worked as a cash register service engineer, for British Telecom, and finally managed a pub in Wiltshire.
Page added 28/07/2024
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