IT was a great start for a Bere Alston boxer in his first bout.

Des Newton, aged 25, took part in a competition between various boxing clubs in the South West, which was held at the Holiday Inn in Plymouth on December 12.

Des was representing Scott Dann's gym at Plympton ABC in the welterweight class (in the 65 kilogram weight).

The Bere Alston man beat his opponent Darren Baskotte by a unanimous decision and also won a trophy for bout of the night. There were 13 bouts in all.

Des is pictured with Andreas Argyrou from Synergy Accountancy in Yelverton, whose company sponsored the trophies for the event at the Holiday Inn in Plymouth. It was taken prior to the match at Plympton Amateur Boxing Club.

With club coach Phil Dann and club member Gavin Caldwell are boxers Malachi Holden, Mikey Dann, the national champion and Yan Veitch.