BOXING in Burnley is in great shape as its two clubs go from strength-to-strength.

Both the Brian Roche Boxing Club and Sandygate ABC - one of the oldest clubs in the region - are enjoying success both in and out of the ring.

Now Brian Roche is looking to secure a sponsor to help take his club, which boasts Olympic prospect Jack Steff, to the next level.

“We have moved to new premises and it has been fantastic,” said Roche.

“The club is packed every week and we are getting some great results in the ring.

“But now we are looking for a sponsor to help take us to the next level. I know we are in a touch financial climate but any help would be appreciated.”

While Roche looks for funds to help fund the club, he has unearthed a rich crop of talent - the latest being George Drinkwater and Uwais Majeed who have attracted attention from England coaches.

Drinkwater, 14, clinched his fifth successive win over Midlands champion Isaac Bloor and the Lifestyle Leisure Complex in Winsford.

And 16-year-old Majeed was FROM PAGE XX also an impressive winner on the same bill, beating Ryan Bithell convincingly on points.

Fellow Burnley fighter, Dean Thompson, 13, beat Dan McCleary from Warrington, also on points.

Anyone wishing to sponsor the club should contact Brian Roche on 07749 903771.

Meanwhile, Sandygate fighters have been in action again with schoolboys boxers Alfie Wardle and Joe Bisset starting the season in style on a show in Leicester.

Joe ‘Butcher’ Bisset, 14, was first in action against Joe Ward from the Leicester Railwaymen ABC.

The Fishermore pupil dominated the three round contest and he got the judges decision to maintain his 100 per cent record.

Alfie ‘Pitbull’ Wardle, also 14, showed no signs of nerves on his debut as the Clitheroe teenager took the fight to John Pegg in such devastating fashion that he was awarded the boxer-of-the-night award.

“To come to their own backyard and perform like that is exceptional,” said coach Nik Tucker. “Not only did the referee say that Joe was a future champion but the judges awarded Alfie the fighter of the night award in his first ever contest.

“I couldn’t be more pleased for the lads.”

Sandygate is now looking forward to holding its first show of the season at Accrington’s New Era on Friday, October 29.

For more details about the show or the club, contact Nik Tucker on 07855 505719 or John Brindle on 07825 250307.