Oxford Boxing Academy's Nicky Miles missed out on the Class A National Novice featherweight title after a tense and close encounter at Portsmouth.

But despite the points defeat to Matthew Chandra from the London-based Crown and Manor gym, the 24-year-old care worker feels the experience was well worth all the effort.

Miles said: "I've learnt a lot from being involved in the competition that will help me in the ring during future years.

"To have got to a national final is a major achievement - several boxers deserve to have done that, but were not that lucky."

The glass roof at the HMS Nelson Boxing Hall made it tough for all Saturday's finalists with the sun shining through to raise the temperature above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Miles added: "It was hot and draining on the ring, but, I suppose, it was the same for everybody and there is no point complaining."

The Academy boxer was up against a defensive opponent who opened up few chinks in his armour, but he remained composed and focussed on his task.

Chandra just had the edge on mobility and accuracy, but, in truth, there was not a lot to separate the pair.

Gracious in defeat, Miles said: "Matthew was the better man in Portsmouth and caught the eye of the judges.

"I've no complaints with the decision, but on another day it could have been me having my arm raised."

Leading Home Counties middleweight Chris Wood had a wasted journey to Torquay when West Country No 1 Luke Whane - his scheduled opponent - withdrew due to an ear problem.