Some of Carlisle’s new, young boxers will be showcasing their talent on Sunday when Carlisle Villa Amateur Boxing Club host their first skills show of 2020.

Taking place at Upperby Social Club, youngsters from the city, and beyond, will be performing, as they take their first steps in the ring.

Jimmy Brennan runs the Carlisle Villa Gym, and thinks the twice-yearly events are ideal for getting the kids ready for competitive bouts.

“A skills show is an event that is aimed at the newly registered boxers,” explained Brennan.

“It gives them experience of boxing in front of a crowd and the opportunity to show off their boxing skills, in a bout that has no winner, which helps their development towards scoring contests.

“Boxers aged from 10 to 16 years can take part in a skills bout and can have up to six before they must then take part in a scoring contest.

“We have a few up and coming boxers in Thomas Moore, Mitchel Watson, Mikey Forsyth, Johnpaul Miller and Kelsie Forsyth all matched and ready to perform on Sunday.”

Clubs from around Cumbria, the Borders and the North East will be participating.

“Nith Valley [Dumfries] and Solway Spartans [Annan] will be bringing a large group of boxers,” Brennan said.

“We also have Hylton Castle, Fight Fitness Guru, Catterick and Billlingham from the Tyne Tees & Wear Region taking part in this event.”

Anyone can watch the show with a £5 admission fee payable on the door. The show starts at midday, and doors open at 11.30am.