Local boxer Sam Baker recently struck gold in the British Youth Championships.

Sam from Begelly has had a tremendously successful season. Back in February, he travelled to Cwmbran and won the Boys Club of Wales title by beating Kyle Jones, of Mountain Ash.

In April, Sam once again travelled to Cwmgors, where he boxed Patrick Lee, of Cardiff, to take the WABA featherweight title.

Sam was then selected to represent Wales and earlier this month travelled to Cardiff, where he boxed Kevin Skey, of Edinburgh, in the finals.

Having already won seven national titles in Scotland, the Scottish boxer was favourite to take this title. However, Sam took exception to this, believing he was well up to the task in hand.

He was a little nervous in the first round, but still won it by two points to one. He soon settled into the second round and won this 2-0.

In the third round, the Scottish boxer threw everything he had at him, but Sam proved far too skilful for Skey and countered everything his opponent had to offer, Sam taking a convincing win five points to two.

Sam is now hoping to go on to greater honours and is hoping to be selected for the Welsh international squad.

His coach Kim Baker said: "Sam has worked really hard this year and deserves all the accolades he has achieved. Well done Sam."

Sam is now looking for sponsorship for the future to help with kit and travel as he is now training out of Cwmgors Boxing Club. Anyone interested, please contact Kim on 07776005962.