A KENT boxing trainer has criticised the staging of two junior championships so soon after Christmas.

With the Clubs for Young People (CYP) beginning as early as January 12, and the Golden Gloves not much later on January 26, St Mary's joint head trainer Dave Bowler, whose club is based in Medway, said there is little time for the youngsters involved to enjoy the festive period.

He said: "I would have preferred one of the championships to have taken place in October or November, and the other in February or March.

"It's a shame we have these championships so close to Christmas. They're young lads and they'll want to have those extra chocolates and sweets – I feel for them.

"The gym will be open for the boxers over Christmas. They'll have Christmas Day and Boxing Day off, and then they'll be back in the gym on the Thursday."