A BOXER has started his amateur career by stopping his opponent in his first bout.

Michael Forbes, 20, represented the recently formed Fishburn Amateur Boxing Club at a club contest in Silksworth, near Sunderland.

Club officials were unsure how he would fare, but their concerns were unfounded, because he stopped his opponent in the 68kg division in just 37 seconds.

Trainer Alan Robinson said: "He did very well. He knocked his opponent out in the first round and he was out cold as well, the poor lad.

"We videoed the fight and watched it in the car on the way home. We timed it at 37 seconds."

There were mixed fortunes for Fishburn's other fighters on the night.

Fourteen-year-old Tyler Wilmott boxed well in the 56kg division, but was narrowly beaten on a split decision.

But Jeff Saunders, 11, who is coached by his father, was victorious in his bout in the 34kg division.

The club is trying to raise funds for a heating system in the gym, and in aid of the appeal, several members completed a sponsored walk from Sedgefield on Sunday.

A fundraising show is being held in Fishburn Working Men's Club on November 28 at 7.15pm. Tickets are available from the club