A YOUNG boxer is proving he can punch above his weight after winning a national championship in his first amateur season.

Tyler Jacques, 12, triumphed in the National Minors Boxing Championships 2015, after competing in the 37-38.5kg division on June 20.

The youngster, who trains with Spennymoor Boxing Academy, took part in the competition after being crowned Tyne Tees and Wear champion and then Northern Counties Champion.

And after a clinching third round in the Chesterfield ring, the judges agreed Tyler was the winner.

His coach, Davy Brown, said: “All credit to Tyler, against all the odds he has become a national champion.

“He has shown discipline in making the weight over a long drawn out tournament, he has shown dedication in his training both in and out of the gym and took the advice of all of the coaching staff and his older brother Michael who also boxes for Spennymoor Boxing Academy.

“He is a fine example to any young aspiring boxer or sportsperson proving that if you put in the hard work you can achieve your goals.”