MIDLANDS welterweight champion Michael Pardoe will top the bill at Droitwich Amater Boxing Club’s dinner tournament next week.

The 25-year-old, who was recently named Wychavon District Council’s sports personality for 2012, will be heading up a thrilling night at Chateau Impney on Friday, October 19.

The tournament is being staged by the DABC with the support of Droitwich Rotary Club to raise funds for their new building appeal.

The boxing club is having to move from its current premises where it has been based for the past 30 years and is raising funds for a new purpose-built gymnasium on the King George’s playing fields site.

Pardoe takes on Nathan Heaney from Stoke, a veteran of more than 70 contests in what should be an enthralling battle.

Other Droitwich senior boxers featured include Aaron Beckford, 25, Anthony Badams, 26 and Shawn Hewlett , 17, while 14-year-old Midlands Schools champion Mikey O’Toole heads up a cast of promising juniors.

“It is early in the season to be holding a home tournament,” said secretary Chris Andrews.

“But the boxers are up for it and we are praying for a sell-out crowd.

“Unfortunately, star prospects Scott Kirby and Harry Butler are tied up in championships and may not be boxing.

“But it will give some of the club’s less experienced members an opportunity.”

Tickets, which include a three-course meal, a comedian, eight to 10 bouts and a band, cost £35 each and can be obtained from Andrews by calling 07961 375903 or sending an email to chris@dabco.

demon.co.uk Admission to the boxing only will be available on the night at £10 per person.