Walcot boxer Bill Harris made a dream start to his boxing career when successful on his debut at the weekend, writes Dave Veysey.

The 11-year-old travelled all the way to Sevenoaks in Kent for his ring baptism, where he encountered Alfie Watts from Strood ABC.

The Swindonian attacked from the outset, with left jabs and straight rights repeatedly hitting the target.

Harris didn’t let the fact his opponent was a southpaw distract him from his objective, and he landed with several combinations to clearly win the opening round.

More of the same attacking flair during the middle session meant Harris increased his advantage, and he was well ahead on points when he came out for the final round.

The Kent youngster attacked from the bell in an attempt to redress the balance, but the Walcot boxer countered with a four-punch combination which led to a standing count for Watts half way through the round.

Watts bravely kept going to hear the final bell, where the referee congratulated both boxers on a terrific contest.

After three entertaining rounds which thrilled a packed house, it was the Walcot boxer who was awarded a unanimous points decision by the ringside judges.

Walcot Coach Jason O’Donoghue was in Harris’ corner and he was delighted with his protégé.

He said: “That was a very good performance from Bill on his debut.

“His opponent was the more experienced lad but Bill didn’t let that put him off, and he attacked with some good left jabs and straight rights all the way through. “He has trained all through the summer and deserves his success.”

Walcot chief coach Harry Scott added: “That’s our season started with a good victory.

“Bill performed really well and let’s hope this is the start of a long and successful career for the young man.”