THE Welsh Amateur Boxing Association has elected Monmouth MP David Davies as its next president.
The keen sportsman, who has fought in several charity boxing bouts as the 'Tory Tornado', was officially unveiled at the launch of the Association's new National Boxing Centre in Cardiff.
Based at the Sports Wales National Centre in Sophia Gardens, the dedicated facility will see the likes of Commonwealth Games medallists Sean Mcgoldrick and GB regular Fred Evans sparring in the ring and training on the punch bags.
Speaking at the launch Mr Davies, who occasionally helps out with coaching at Monmouth Comprehensive School's boxing club, said: "I was asked to become the next president because of my love for the sport and it's a great honour.
"I'm delighted to be able to accept and look forward to lending my support in any way I can.
"I'm keen to promote the positive side of the sport. A lot of peoples' experience of boxing is shaped by a professional fight they've seen on TV and there's a lot more to it than that.
"Boxing is much safer than people think and I want them to look at the sport and appreciate it's fantastic for young people to do; it can give them a real focus."