MARTIAL arts champion Wesley Fagan won his first British title belt in front of a sell-out home crowd.

The 21-year-old joiner, from Dipton, near Stanley, won the British European Kickboxing Commission Super Middleweight belt when he defeated Sunderland-born Michael Johnson in a full-contact match over seven rounds.

The bout, held at Stanley Central Workingmen's Club, was a sell-out and was packed with Mr Fagan's friends and family.

But there was one exception - his mother, Patricia.

"I don't let my mam come to see me fight," he said.

"Full contact is rough and I don't think she would like to see her boy getting punched. But she still supports me from home."

Mr Fagan, the UK number one at his weight, said: "I feel I am in my best form at the moment and I have got the best trainer.

"It was great to win my first national title and I am looking forward to defending it in November.

"If that goes well, hopefully I will get a shot at a European title next year."

His dad Paul said: "We are very proud of him, for the dedication he has shown over the last few years.

"All his friends and family turned out to support him at the fight and it was a really good night."

Wesley switched from Jujitsu to kickboxing five years ago, when he walked into the Martial Arts Centre in Annfield Plain. He has worked with trainer Goff Bates ever since.

"As soon as he started, we could see he potential in him," said Mr Bates. "He took to it very well, had good skill and aggression when he was sparring.

"His dedication has been brilliant. For a lad of his age, working full time, it takes a lot to train four times a week.

"When he goes out with his mates he has to drink orange juice and go home early to look after himself. But it is paying off for him now."

Mr Fagan is the latest in a line of title winners at the gym that includes junior world champions Craig Richardson, Gavin Graham and Mr Bates's son, Jamie.