A 16-YEAR-OLD boxer has been named as September's Darlington Young Sportswinner.

Martin Stead, a member of Darlington Amateur Boxing Club, has twice been British School Champion.

This year, he was selected for the England youth squad, and was chosen to represent his country in a youth tournament in America, where he won a gold medal.

This month, Martin has also been named best young boxer by the North-East Amateur Boxing Association.

As Darlington's Young Sportswinner of the month, he wins a trophy, £100 of sports vouchers from Orange and 12 months' free membership to the Eastbourne Sports Complex fitness suite.

Runner-up in the monthly sportswinner awards, sponsored by Orange, is Shaun Potts, 13, from Hartlepool, who is a member of Darlington Swimming Club.

Seventeen-year-old Matthew Bowden, from Newton Aycliffe, came third for his achievements in swimming.

The Darlington Borough Council Service to Sport Award went to Donald Thompson, from Heighington, who has voluntarily worked for Disability Sport England for 20 years, has been treasurer of the Darlington Marlins Swimming Club for 15 years, and a member of Darlington Sports Council for 12 years.

Jackson Sweeting, founder of the Haughton Volleyball Club and a North of England coach, received a coaching award, sponsored by the Master Skills Sporting Academy.

The Haughton Volleyball Club team: Lauren Sweeting, Caroline Evans, Laura Cave, Rosie Hyde, Paula Nichol and Claire Miller, received the Amec-sponsored team/club award.

Sports being considered for October's awards are netball, rugby, archery, skating and golf. The closing date for entries is October 13, and forms are available from Janet Cooper on (01325) 38841