BUDDING boxers have been praised by former world bantamweight champion Stuart Hall for stepping into the ring ahead of a fundraiser that packs a punch.

Businessmen and women have been swapping suits for boxing gloves to support a scheme set to see would-be boxers going head to head for three rounds in aid of charity.

The corporate boxing event – called Taking Care of Business – is set to raise thousands of pounds for organisations in need across the North-East.

And Darlington’s own Mr Hall, who hopes to regain his bantamweight title after beating Mexican Rodrigo Guerrero last month, has been thrilled with the response to the unique fighting fundraiser.

Mr Hall said: “We’ve been delighted by the response – Taking Care of Business has really captured the imagination.

“It’s great that so many people want to get fit, learn how to box and raise money for their favourite charity – I can’t wait to get started.”

Darlington’s Dolphin Centre will see contestants stepping between the ropes for the charitable showdown in July after six weeks of intensive training is overseen by the former world champion.

Each fighter will be wearing a gum shield and full head protection during their matches which will pit similar-level boxers against each other.

Fitness trainer and former soldier, Johnny Harrison, will also be supporting Mr Hall during the training process after the pair came up with idea of a corporate boxing fundraiser together.

And Darlington-based Patrick Masheder, of Corporate Personal Fitness, said: “Boxing is the perfect way to get fit. The training is tough but, after six weeks, I guarantee everyone who enters will be able to see the results.

“People in the North-East are justifiably famous for their generosity, spirit and willingness to help.

“Corporate boxing events in other parts of the country have already raised a fortune for charities.”

After signing up the Taking Care of Business process, each wannabe Ali must agree to fundraise as part of the training package.

The Corporate Personal Fitness group have also announced that they hope this will be the first of many similar sporting fundraisers run by the organisation in the North-East.

Mr Masheder added: “Taking Care of Business is going to be our region’s chance to raise thousands of pounds for good causes in one glittering night of corporate boxing.

“We know people in the North-East will stand up to be counted.”

To get tickets to the event at the Dolphin Centre, on Saturday, July 16, or for more information on the fundraiser, visit corporatepersonalfitness.co.uk/events