Cath Mercer and Oliver Rodgers, who have a significant age gap, both celebrated victories in their debut boxing matches at the Clash in Craven 3 event.

This was the latest show held by Craven Community Boxing Club, which took place at Ilkley's Craiglands Hotel.

Around 300 spectators watched 16 fights, featuring local boxers eager to display their newly-acquired skills.

Mercer, 61, expressed her joy after her win, saying: "I'd started off attending the weekly ladies session with Mark Shaw at the club.

"I loved it and started training at the open sessions.

"I felt good and so much less stressed after each session and had an urge to compete on the show, prove to my self that I could do it.

"I'm proud to have got the win over a much younger equally novice lady boxer.

"In fact, I'm buzzing. It was all over quite quickly. Quicker than a sparring session in training.

"I don't know where I got the courage from. I just thought that I needed to get on with it.

"Now I'm looking forward to my second bout."

Rodgers, 14, was equally proud of his victory over a more experienced boxer from Wakefield.

Rodgers, who started training at the Skipton club 11 months ago, said: "This was my first fight with a judges' decision.

"I'd already had two skills bouts on earlier shows.

"That's where the boxer can concentrate of displaying the techniques that they've practised in training.

"It's certainly good preparation.

"I made sure that I followed advice from my corner and although there are areas for improvement, I was able to outbox my opponent.

"I love the sport, the way everyone of all ages at the gym get on well working together, and I now train most days with longish runs on a Saturday."

Thirteen-year-old Alfie Wildman, who has been training under Mark Shaw for two years, also shared his experiences after his skills bout.

He said: "I felt good after my skills bout.

"My first time in the ring in front of all those people. It's helped me become much more confident."

His granddad, Elliot Coats, added: "His progress has been amazing.

"He's lost ten kilos and come out of his shell."

Dean Metcalfe Jr, a Year 11 South Craven School pupil, won his bout by unanimous decision in a fast-paced display of courage.

Metcalfe Jr said: "I adapted to the opponent's style and especially his longer reach.

"Happy I won and proud to show discipline and commitment to this sport in this year where I'll be juggling GCSEs with training."

His father, Dean Sr, added: "The quality coaching my son gets has improved his self-discipline, confidence, and overall fitness."

Dean Metcalfe and his dad (Image: Supplied)

Mark Shaw, coach at Craven Community Boxing Club, encourages anyone interested in training at the Cavendish Street club, BD23 2AB, or those able to offer sponsorship, to get in contact.