Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot Boxing Club members and support travelled to Minehead to box on Saturday.

Three boxers from the club – Wayne Bellamy (17), Jack Nicholls (15) and Wayne Grainger (14), along with their their coach Chris Rattenbury, took up the challenge as they were double-booked to box in Bideford.

The Watchet Club (near Minehead) had brought three boxers to the Newton show and the favour was returned. At the weigh-in, Nicholls' opponent failed to turn up. The club tried to find an alternative opponent, but nobody could be matched within the age and weight limit and, sadly for him, he was unable to box after preparing himself to step up in class after his last impressive win.

Grainger was on a return bout after beating Callum Harper on the Newton show, and was looking to use his skills to impress the crowd. Grainger had been away on holiday and had not prepared for this contest fully, but from the first bell he took control with his workrate and strong jabbing, despite Harper driving through with determination and grit, putting the Newton boxer under pressure.

Grainger kept up the pressure, forcing Harper to retire at the start of the third round.

Last up was Bellamy, who has impressed many people with his great performance on the Newton show.

He took up the challenge and a big step up in class to box his opponent, who had 34 previous bouts to his 10. Because of his new skills, fitness and corrected techniques, Bellamy is determined to go all the way.

He prepared himself well for this bout and was focussed, under the guidance of his coach Rattenbury. However, at ringside it was discovered that Bellamy was more than a year older than his opponent and the bout was called off, causing frustration for him, his family and the fans who had made the journey to support the club.

The southern area championships are due to be staged in Devonport on April 8, and the Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot Boxing Club is hoping to enter two boxers in the senior novice championships – team captain Lewis Chapple at welterweight and heavyweight Clinton Marshall are due be classed as fit as from next week and preparations are already taking place.