BERE Alston boxer Des Newton overcame a tough opponent to to fight his way to success in his first professional fight.

Des, who has enjoyed success as an lightweight amateur in the last couple of years, beat journeyman Qusim Hussain, over four rounds, at the Grange Leisure Centre in Swindon.

Des, aged 28, who is nicknamed ’the Destroyer’, was cheered on by a sizeable contingent from West Devon who travelled to Wiltshire to support him.

For more on this story see next week’s Times (June 23).