FRAN BARKER made history as the first female boxer to represent Malmesbury ABC on Saturday – and was an impressive winner of her debut in Swindon.

The occasion was the first all-female show instigated by the ABA (Women's Box Series).

Barker faced Charlie Webster of Lynn (London) ABC and immediately put her opponent under pressure in the opening round.

Solid left jabs drove the London girl back on the ropes where Barker unleashed a volley of combination punches, prompting referee Kenny Brain to impose a standing count.

Barker had no intention of letting Webster off the hook and stormed back on the attack. She connected with more heavy shots, which resulted in the referee calling a halt to the contest after little more than 60 seconds.

The England Coach in attendance was suitably impressed with Barker's performance and she will now represent a Western Counties Select team against the Southern Counties in Portsmouth later in the month.