A BOXER who died in a motorcycle accident is to be remembered in an annual memorial bout.

Lee Smith was killed when his motorbike hit a lamppost, in Newton Aycliffe, on June 3.

The bout on November 4 is being organised by his former club, King's Cobra, in Newton Aycliffe, which is looking for an event sponsor.

Mr Smith's friend, Lorraine Moore, is helping organise the event. She said: "We're well on our way with the organisation, we're expecting fighters from all over the country. We've got the ring, the venue and a lot of the match sponsors, but we need a main sponsor for the event."

Mr Smith, who was 33, held three British titles and was ranked fourth in the World Championships.

Miss Moore said: "There were over 500 people at his funeral and there are other events taking place in his memory. Lee competed in Thailand twice, but he was unable to get sponsorship."

With the money from this bout, Lee's family is hoping to set up a charity to help send fighters overseas. Anyone who is interested in sponsoring the event can call 07786-195324.