Stafford bags national first for Chadderton club

WELL DONE, CHAMP! . . . Andy Stafford is flanked by delighted Chadderton head coach

CHADDERTON Boxing Club prospect Andrew Stafford has been crowned England Boxing Senior Development National Champion in the 69kg category.

Stafford, who only joined the Broadway-based club two years ago having never boxed before, won the North-West regional championships before going on to secure national glory.

Head coach Jason Wallace said: "All the coaches are extremely proud of what Andrew has achieved.

"He joined the gym about two years ago having never boxed before, so to go from complete novice to national champion in in such a short space of time is an incredible achievement.

"This win is testament to the hard work put in by everyone at the gym.

"Andrew works extremely hard in the gym and his dedication to his sport has been exemplary."

Stafford is Chadderton Boxing Club's first national champion.

It was opened just over four years ago by Sugar Ray Leonard.