AT 46 years of age, most can't claim to be the in the best shape they have ever been. But for Matthew Hall things are a little different.

The novelist and screen writer from Whitebrook is preparing for his debut in the boxing ring, taking part in a 'white collar boxing' tournament at the Hand Arena near Bristol, this Saturday 12th April.

The tournament concludes three months of intensive training for Mr Hall, who is boxing in aide of the children's ward

at Neville Hall Hospital.

The challenge was spurred on after his 15 year old son spent a week in the ward last year.

"The round the clock care offered by their dedicated team of nurses was proof that contrary to press reports, the NHS is full of kind, attentive staff more than prepared to go the extra mile," Mr Hall said.

"We couldn't have been better looked after. The ward itself however, is a little tired. The TVs weren't working and it was hard to find a wheelchair that would go in a straight line.

"Whatever money can be put their way will have an instant effect, I'm sure, making time spent in hospital just a little more comfortable for the children and their parents."

The intrepid father of two said the venture was also partly inspired by Monmoutshire's local MP David Davies.

"I was giving a talk locally and was speaking to David afterwards who was telling me about his recent boxing match in London," said Mr Hall.

"We are around the same age and I thought, well if he can perhaps I can. At 46 this might be my last chance.

"I did a bit of boxing at uni and I've always fancied having a go."

The amateur boxer travels the hour journey to Bath four times a week to train with fitness company Zero to Hero, as well as training at home.

"For the past several years I've been doing a lot of trail running in Monmouthshire which was a good base, but the boxing fitness is on a different level," he said.

"The training is relentless and all consuming."

The program, which requires abstaining from alcohol and refined sugars for the entire training period, encompasses 22 'contender', the youngest of whom is 22 years old. The Saturday night tournament will see the Bath camp joining up with a North Somerset camp, resulting in 22 boxing rounds.

"I'm feeling good and pretty confident. It's funny that I am the fittest I have ever been in my life," the Whitebrook resident said.

"My two sons will be coming on Saturday night to cheer me on, they're all for it and will probably be giving me a bit of advice."

Mr Hall thought the celebrations wouldn't get too out of hand after the match.

"I'm looking to run a marathon in summer with a few blokes from Monmouhshire," the author said.

"Although after three months of no acohol I will definitely be having a nice glass of wine."

To make a donation please visit Mr Hall's just giving page http://www.justgiving.com/Matthew-Hall16">http://www.justgiving.com/Matthew-Hall16 or send a cheque or postal order made out to Aneurin Bevan Local Health Board to: Matthew Hall, Traligael, Whitebrook, NP25 4TX.

By agreement with the Board, all monies will be applied specifically to the children's ward.