Bradley Townsend picked up the most promising boxer award at Oxford Boxing Academy’s end-of -season party.

The 14-year-old flyweight was chosen by chief coach Faz Keyani in recognition of his increased tactical awareness and maturity over the past season.

Keyani said: “Bradley should have more bouts on his card, but he had a run of bad luck with several opponents pulling out at the last minute.

“But he never showed signs of the obvious disappointment, and remained focused on being as well prepared as possible for the next bout whenever it was going to take place.

“It was Bradley’s positive attitude that transmitted itself throughout the gym and one that the others have started to copy.”

OBA supremo Keyani has added to his workload ahead of next season by taking on the role of Home Counties ABA secretary. He succeeds Thame’s Peter Garnish, who held the post for five years.

Keyani, who has been involved in boxing in Oxford for almost 33 years, said: “Peter did a fantastic job and, in many respects, will be a difficult act to follow.

“During his term of office the number of boxers in the Home Counties grew considerably. We have almost 60 clubs across five counties and that number could grow.

“The British Olympic success in Beijing and the prospect of the next Games being staged in London has increased the sport’s profile a great deal.

“And there is no reason that future champions cannot emerge from the Home Counties.”