JOE HUGHES will be taking time out from his European title fight preparations to present the prizes at a unique show for his old boxing club in Malmesbury on November 25.

Hughes joined Malmesbury ABC at the age of eight and under the guidance of head coach Tony Stannard he enjoyed a stellar amateur career, winning both Junior and Senior ABA titles before turning pro, since when he has won a further raft of titles in the super lightweight division.

Stannard died from cancer in July and a boxing bill for Malmesbury ABC youngsters at the Activity Zone in town is being held in his memory.

“The show takes place only a week ahead of my European title fight against the champion Anthony Yigit in Leicester but I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” said Hughes, who now fights out of Paddy John’s gym in Bristol.

“I came down to the club about a month ago and did some sparring with some of their promising youngsters and I am really looking forward to seeing them in the ring.

“It’s a huge fundraiser for the club and the first boxing show in the town since 2009 when we put on an outdoor show at Malmesbury Vics FC.

“Most of our shows were held at the Olympiad in Chippenham or the Neeld Hall so this one at the Activity Zone is a big deal for Malmesbury and I hope the town come out in force to support the club.

“If Tony were still with us I know he would be very excited about my European title bid and be giving me plenty of advice.”

Hughes said his big-fight preparations were going well, even though he took the bout at just a month’s notice.

“I’m training flat out and preparations are well on track,” he said. “Winning the European title would open so many doors for me.

“Anthony can box in a number of styles so it is hard to know what his tactics might be, but he is obviously a good champion and I think it will be a cracking fight."

Tickets for the Malmesbury ABC show in memory of Tony Stannard on Saturday, November 25 are £40 per head to include a three-course meal. For tickets call head coach Mike Rees on 07974 749927 or email malmesburyabc@gmail.com.

Tickets for Joe Hughes’ European super lightweight title fight against Anthony Yigit of Sweden at the Leicester Arena on Saturday, December 2 can be bought from Hughes on 07878 454570 or through his Twitter page @joehughesboxing.