Boxers pack a punch as fund-raisers

THREE Oldham men will endure some bruising encounters to raise money for Royton’s Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.

Amateur boxers Mark Wall, Phil Bunton and Joe Marland have organised a competition between themselves with all the proceeds going to the charity.

The trio will take it in turn to fight each other over three weeks at Tommy Woods Boxing Academy, Tame Street, Stalybridge — and they hope to raise £1,000. The bouts are three rounds of three minutes each.

The first was held on Saturday with Mr Bunton defeating Mr Wall on points.

The other two matches take place on Saturday and Saturday, July 10, both at 4pm.

Mr Wall said: “We were doing it as a laugh and a joke at first and then we thought it would be a good idea to raise some money for Dr Kershaw’s. We have been going round to local businesses to get sponsorship.

“We have raised quite a bit of money so far and are trying to raise £1,000. It went well on Saturday and we had a good turnout.”

Mr Wall will now take on Mr Marland on Saturday with the last bout a final between the winner and Mr Bunton.

Tickets costing £5 to watch the boxing are available on the door and the trio are planning to organise a fundraising bash at Victoria Inn, Hollins Road on Sunday, July 11.

To sponsor the boxers or for more details call Mr Wall on 07707-265730.