YORK cruiserweight Jamie Warters will be backed by former featherweight world champion Paul Ingle as he bids to move towards a shot at the British title tonight, writes Tony Curtis.

Warters will enter the ring at Hull's Willerby Manor to take on the vastly experienced - and highly durable - Michael Pinnock determined to show the travelling York contingent what he can do.

And in the corner of the Jorvik Warrior should be Scarborough's battling brave Ingle, who is back behind the scenes of the ringcraft to inspire future generations of boxers.

The Yorkshire Hunter underwent three months' hospital rehabilitation after he needed emergency surgery to remove a blood clot on the brain from his 12th round knockdown by Mbulelo Mbotile in their December 2000 International Boxing Federation title fight in Sheffield.

But despite the injuries, Ingle has battled his way back to fitness - epitomising the bulldog spirit which made him a success in the ring - and is still very much part of the sport.

In fact, it was Ingle who convinced Warters to team up with his former trainer, Steve Pollard, to kick-start the Warriors career.

And Ingle connection with Warters is more than just a passing interest, with the former IBF champion handing out words of encouragement ahead of tonight's showdown.

Warters told the Evening Press: "I spoken to Paul Ingle about the fight as he has been a real inspiration to me.

"He has given me advise on my training and told me not to get carried away with it, but to save it for the big fight.

"He may come into my corner for the fight, which will be a big buzz. Just to have him there will be a big inspiration for me.

"I've known Paul from the start and not only was he a good boxer, but he has been a really good friend."

Having lost to Tony Booth in his comeback fight back in November, Warters is confident he can reverse only the second defeat of his career, especially as he has another bout planned in a fortnight's time.

"I feel good about myself," he said. "Things have been going well in training and Steve (Pollard) has been pleased with the way things have gone and with me.

"I can always tell when he is happy as he stops swearing at me!

"My sparring has been spot on and there are no injuries, so I'm quietly confident. I'll be going out there to win and win well."

Warters will top the bill on a three-fight card, with his sparring partner Sonny Pollard and Scarborough's Chris Hooper also due to fight.

Warters' next opponents, for a six-fight card at the KC Stadium in Hull on April 17, will be confirmed following his fight over Pinnock.

Updated: 11:06 Thursday, April 03, 2003