From a life on the streets to the glory of the boxing ring. London's East End, 1953: Albert Kemp is a lonely widower, whose only son was killed in the war. Now he works in a pub by the railway arches. Downstairs is a traditional bar, upstairs is a famous boxing gym. It is here that Albert brings Danny, a fatherless boy who he rescues from gang life on the streets. But as Danny begins to grow into a champion, the predators start to circle, luring him with glittering promises back into a life of crime. Will Danny listen to his wise old mentor? Or will the prospect of fame and money be too tempting?