Hartlepool boxer Steven Cosgrove is quickly making a big name for himself in the sport, writes Paul Fraser.

The 12-year-old, who claimed a National Schoolboys' title in March, made his first appearance in an England vest last weekend in Swansea - and he did not disappoint.

Cosgrove took the gold medal for his country in the prestigious four nations competition held in Wales.

The Hartlepool Catholic Club boxer, who has only had 12 contests, was outstanding in both bouts to clinch glory.

First Cosgrove defeated Irish champion John Nevin after he made the most of his blistering start in the semi-final.

Nevin went on the attack but Cosgrove picked his opponent off with some long-range combinations.

Cosgrove took the contest 60-50 on points and he went into the final against young Scot Andrew Whyte buoyant and it was to show.

The English national schoolboys' champion settled quickly to the computer scoring and boxed brilliantly with Final nerves not showing. Cosgrove threw in some long range combinations to the head and followed those up with some powerful body shots.

There was no let up in the second round when Cosgrove proved too strong and the referee stopped the contest when the Hartlepool youngster went 10-0 in front.