THE region's young boxing talent will strike a blow for anti-smoking campaigners when they star in a showpiece tournament at the weekend.

More than 50 teenage hopefuls, who will compete at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, on Saturday, in front of 500 people, said they wanted the hall to be a non-smoking area.

Durham County Association of Clubs for Young People, which organised the event, agreed to the ban.

Alan Watson, the association's North-East field officer, said: "This is the unanimous decision of the athletes taking part who simply want to create a healthy sporting atmosphere in which to compete.

"We think this might be the first time such a ban has been imposed at a major sporting event in this part of the country."

Clubs from Durham and North Teesside, Tyne and Wear, are sending fighters aged between 15 and 19 to box in three different classes depending on age and weight.

The winners will go on to further competition that could take them to national finals in London, Wales and Liverpool in December.

In the audience could be some of the country's top boxers who rose to fame through Boys' Club competitions.

The fights start at 1pm. Tickets are £5 from (0191) 383 1898 or 07788 583013.