A BOXING club coach has been recognised for his services to young people by Wear Valley District Council.

John Heighington, who lives in Bishop Auckland, has coached hundreds of youngsters at Shildon Boxing Club.

His has trained 92 young men at national level, including English professional Nigel Wright.

District Councillor Tommy Taylor said: "I am proud to acknowledge John's achievements.

"He is very well known throughout the boxing world and is often called the Alex Ferguson of Amateur Boxing.

"I want to be one of the first people to congratulate him for the honour given to him by the district council."

Mr Heighington said: "It is nice to be thought of in this way and I thank the council. But I do not do it for the recognition, I do it for the kids.

"There are a lot of good kids at the club and I have a lot of respect for them and they have a lot of respect for me. That is what it is all about.''