AN accountant turned amateur boxer will take to the ring in Nantwich this weekend.

John Harrison, who works in Winsford, is leaving his day job behind to fight in South Cheshire Amateur Boxing Club’s maiden show at the town’s Civic Hall.

A latecomer to the sport, the 28-year-old says he is ready thanks to Lostock-based trainer Frank Collins.

He admits too that his training sessions in the gym are different to those of his work colleagues.

“They can’t believe I do it, especially when I come into the office with black eyes,” said Harrison, from Leftwich.

“But the main reason I started was to improve my fitness.

“I started training with Frank two years ago; he suits me best and he’s a grafter. First and foremost you have to be ready physically, and Frank has helped me with that.

“I got into boxing pretty late at 26 but I just took to it; I played a bit of footie previously, but I think my brother got all the footballing genes!”

Saturday marks the start of Harrison’s preparation for the Liverpool and Cheshire Championships in October, but the light heavyweight confesses he won’t be thinking too much about that yet.

“I keep it so I don’t know who I’m fighting,” he added.

“I’d rather meet them in the ring and worry about my own preparation.

“I’m hoping for five or six fights before October. Frank’s got me a sponsor with Priory Rentals, and they will pay for all my kit and bills.

“Boxing is not too expensive; once you’ve got the kit you’re sorted, but it feels nice to have their backing.”

Saturday’s boxing night starts at 6pm.

Tickets, available on the door, are £10 per person.