Gary Watkinson

Wigginton Thai boxer Gary Watkinson is to kick-start his fighting career with England.

Amazingly after just one fight the 28-year-old has been chosen to represent England in a tournament in Cyprus in February.

He thrashed his opponent in Leeds at the College of Ripon and York St John eight weeks ago.

Little did he know but the Muythai Boxing coach for England, Kevin Lloyd, saw the fight and soon contacted Watkinson's coach, Andy Wilson, to ask about his availability for Cyprus.

Now he will by flying out to the Mediterranean island as part of England's 14-strong team. Wilby will also be accompanying him.

Watkinson will be fighting in the 86 kilos division and is training hard at Emperors Health and Fitness Centre in Skeldergate ready for his national debut.

His main sponsor for the trip is Silvanos, the Italian restaurant based in Cumberland Street, York, and also has backing from security firm Quantum Leisure Security and Emperors.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.