A FORMER world champion boxer will launch his hard-hitting autobiography next month.

Annfield Plain-born boxer Glenn McCrory, who became the region’s first world champion in 1989 when he won the IBF Cruiserweight title, will launch his book Carrying David at Waterstones in Newcastle on June 8.

The book’s title stems from the inspiration he drew from his adopted brother David and his battle against a form of muscular dystrophy.

“David was my inspiration because he would never give in and he kept me going when things were terrible,” said Mr McCrory.

David was adopted by the McCrory family as a six year old and when walking became difficult, the brothers found an unusual way to make sure they were not late for school.

“David’s slow walking speed was forever holding us up so, one morning, I became exasperated, told him he was always dragging behind and made him get on my back so I could carry him there quicker. I carried him to school from the age of seven to 12.”

As Mr McCrory began a boxing career that would eventually see him crowned world champion, David’s condition slowly deteriorated, but he lived long enough to see him win the title.

“David was supposed to die when he was 15 but he died at 29,” Mr McCrory said. “He wouldn’t give up. He inspired me. I think he’s still on my back looking out for me. David is with me every single day.”

The publication of McCrory’s autobiography has been timed to coincide with a one-man play about Mr McCrory's life, also called Carrying David, which stars the former boxer in a five-night run starting on May 24 at the Alun Armstrong Theatre in Stanley.

Tickets for the book launch can be purchased from the store or online at www.waterstones.com/events.