THE boxing legacy of his great-granddad is inspiring one resident to take part in a charity boxing event.

James Norman lost his great grandfather Jim, a war veteran and former chairman of the Amateur Boxing Association, to cancer in recent years.

And now James, who lives in the town centre, will take part in one of Ultra White Collar Boxing’s popular fight nights to raise money and awareness for Cancer Research UK.

“I wanted to do something to support a great charity like Cancer Research, but also in memory of my great-grandad Jim,” he said.

"He was the chairman of the Amateur Boxing Association, a Second World War veteran and the greatest icon I could have ever of asked for, so boxing for charity seemed fitting.

“With Ultra White Collar Boxing, you get eight weeks of free training and then get to box in a big event at the Halliwell Jones Stadium against an opponent of similar stature and ability.

“You do get taken out of your comfort zone, but it is a great way of raising money and awareness for such a good cause.”

James will take to the ring on Saturday, July 13, to box three rounds lasting two minutes each, but he is tasked with fundraising for the charity in the weeks leading up to it.

“Most people taking part in the event have had their lives affected by cancer in some way, either themselves or through friends and family,” said James.

“Although the main event and training is all organised for you, it is the job of each participant to raise money for charity by selling tickets.

“I have set my initial target at £500 but am hoping to smash through this and raise as much as I can.”

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With the big fight night quickly approaching, James says he has begun the rigorous training programme to get him ready to take on his opponent.

“Training for the event started this week at Supremacy Fitness Centre and has been going really well.

“I had already begun my own training programme though at Warrington Hook and Jab to give me a head start.

“Preparation for the fight night will be intense, but I know my great grandad would be proud of me for taking part and that will drive me on.”

If you would like to support James and donate to Cancer Research, visit his Just Giving page here