SWINDON boxer Kelvin Young has been given the backing of two local businesses as he bids to win the Southern Area super middleweight title at the Oasis on Friday night.

Very few professional boxers are able to concentrate fully on their sport and need a second job to pay the bills, with only a dozen fighters in Britain able to live on their earnings from the ring alone.

Former Penhill amateur Young, who takes on Bristol rival Martin Robbins for the vacant title, has been more fortunate than most.

Thanks to two local businessmen he is now able to concentrate totally on his boxing career, which he will be aiming to take to new heights against Robbins.

AA Drainaway and RJ McGrath Recycling have jointly sponsored the 24 year-old Swindonian as he looks to make further progress in the sport.

Alan Newdick, AA Drainaway’s managing director, said: “Having watched Kelvin as an amateur I was aware of his potential, and he has shown the commitment and determination to go as far as possible in the sport.

“Away from the ring he is totally dedicated to his young family which is in tune with our own family business philosophy.

Fellow sponsor John McGrath added: “Kelvin is a model professional and provides a perfect example for the youngsters to follow.

“He is polite, modest and respectful to everyone in boxing, especially his opponents.”

Young admitted he is fortunate to have the backing of the pair.

“Mr Newdick and Mr McGrath have provided me with a wonderful opportunity to concentrate on my ring career and I cannot thank them enough,” he said.

“It would have been more difficult juggling boxing with work on a building site so I’m extremely lucky to have been given the chance.

“Without their support I would not have reached this stage in my career.

Tickets for the title fight – priced at £35 and £60 (VIP/Ringside) are on sale at www.kmpromotions.co.uk, through any of the boxers or by calling 07789 890453.