THE leading young amateur boxers from England took on their Italian counterparts in front of a packed audience at Basingstoke's Aldworth Science College last Friday.

In a special evening of international pugilism, arranged by the Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane in partnership with the Amateur Boxing Association (ABA), more than 450 people, mostly from local businesses, attended to make it an atmospheric occasion.

There were 39 tables of 10, with companies paying £850 per ringside table, £700 for further back, arranged around the 20ft-square boxing ring in the centre of the school's main gym.

ABA chairman Jim Smart was among the gathered crowd of boxing fans treated to a superb meal, washed down with wine and beer, before they watched seven fights across a range of weights.

England eventually ran out 4-3 winners, with the referee stopping the action in the third and final round of the second and fifth fights.

The evening, principally sponsored by Philips Lighting Limited and Wella UK, was hailed a massive success, for it raised an estimated £23,000 for charity.

As part of the fundraising on the night, a team of six young ladies, all drama students who made their own outfits, sold grand draw tickets and held an "It's a Knock-Out" competition.

The money raised will be distributed by the Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane through its charity fund to local organisations and charities needing aid.

Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane chairman Roy Sands said: "It was a great night and, for the third year running, we've been delighted to help stage an international boxing evening in Basingstoke.

"People don't get the chance to see much amateur boxing outside the major cities like London and Liverpool, so it's great we can use our good relationship with the ABA to bring international boxing to town."

He added: "We're grateful that Aldworth Science College can host us.

"With it being half-term, we are guaranteed a sizeable venue that can hold 450 people and full-size boxing ring. Plus the school also benefits financially."

Sands revealed preparations are already under way for next year's international.

"It's become an event we hope to continue for a very long time, and everything is in place to do so," he added.

Prior to staging internationals, the Rotary Club of Basingstoke Deane held a boxing evening between fighters from the Army, Navy and Police.