FORMER Arsenal legend Perry Groves and ex-World Light Heavyweight champion John Conteh topped the bill as guest speakers at a special dinner event at Aldwickbury Park Golf Club, Harpenden.

Groves – a cult hero among Arsenal fans – kept those gathered entertained with stories from his days as a super-sub for the Gunners in the 80s and 90s, where he picked up two League Championship winners medals and was part of the famous Championship winning team of 1989, where a last gasp goal from Michael Thomas against Liverpool clinched the title.

John Conteh – who also claimed a Commonwealth Gold Medal and was the 1974 Superstars champion – talked about his life in boxing and party lifestyle, where he often found himself on the front pages as well as the back.

Conteh was even touted as a possible contender to take on Muhammad Ali, however it was Ali himself who persuaded Conteh to stick to light heavyweight as ‘The Greatest’ believed he was too small to be a heavyweight boxer.

The evening’s event followed a day’s golf on Aldwickbury Park’s 18-hole Park Course – designed by former Ryder Cup star and BBC commentator Ken Brown. Andrew Shewbridge, Aldwickbury Park Golf Club general manager, said: “It was a fantastic evening and everyone loved the insight that both Perry and John gave to their lives as elite sportsmen. Both were extremely entertaining and had those gathered in stitches. We are extremely grateful to both for attending the event.”

The evening concluded with a set from stand up comedian Russ Williams, who supported Freddie Starr on his recent nationwide tour.

Former Arsenal footballer, Paul Merson, was scheduled to headline the evening’s bill, but was unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances.