THE family of a former boxing master of ceremonies, who died of a heart attack, have collected money to help young boxers.

Royce Carson, 51, of Helmington Row, Crook, died last year. Because he was devoted to boxing and horse racing, his family decided that money given at his funeral should go to benefit one of the things he loved best in life.

His wife, Susan, 48, son Royce 18, daughter Melanie, 28, and granddaughter Megan, gave a cheque for £330 to chief coach Robbie Ellis and president Brent Green, of Spennymoor Boxing Academy, where Mr Carson had spent much of his free time.

The money will be used to send a young boxer on the club's next International tour.

Mr Ellis said: "Royce really encouraged the young boxers to do their best. The only thing he got out of it was seeing the kids do well. He would be proud to know that the money is being used to send a young fighter abroad."