James DeGale defends his crown at Glow Bluewater’s sporting debut

by business editor Trevor Sturgess

It was seconds out for a new sporting and business role for Bluewater when 2,700 fans turned up for championship boxing.

The exhibition centre Glow was packed to capacity for James DeGale's successful defence of his European Super Middleweight crown on Saturday.

The fight and eight-bout undercard were screened live by Channel Five in the UK, and Wealth TV in the United States - giving Glow further useful publicity as a venue for consumer and business shows.

It was the first sporting event at Glow and could herald many more after plaudits from promoters at Hennessy Sports.

DeGale, a 2008 Olympic gold medallist, won a points decision after a tough fight over 12 rounds.

Robert Goodman, Bluewater's general manager, said the event underlined the venue's flexibility and diversity.

He said: "The atmosphere was electric and the feedback from the public, both directly on the night and via social media, has been incredibly positive.

"The boxing has been a great success, and we look forward to hosting more sports events in the future."

Mick Hennessy, of Hennessy Sports, said: "The combination of the two halls worked perfectly, with the public enjoying the bar and catering facilities downstairs, before heading to the upper hall to watch the bouts.

"We will be back, and I am confident we will not be alone in bringing live sport to the south east at Glow."