A YOUNG Northwich boxer reached the 60kg final of the National Development Championships.

Leland Skinkis from Lostock Green went nine fights unbeaten leading up to Sunday’s decider at Chase Leisure Centre but finished his contest with Inner City Boxing Club’s Hugo Searle as runner-up.

The 16-year-old missed out on the title via a close split-decision.

The previous day, Skinkis defeated Saeed Din in the semi-finals at the same venue by unanimous decision.

And the weekend before Skinkis was again a unanimous points winner against Sonny Lomozik from Rotherham Unity ABC in the quarter-finals at Bolton Lads and Girls Club.

His progress came on the back of winning the England Boxing North West 60kg title in Blackburn last month.

Skinkis, who is home schooled, competes with West Wythenshawe Amateur Boxing Club.

He took up boxing two years ago.