A FIREMAN and ultra runner raised more than £2,000 for charity by taking on a boxing challenge.

Richard Woods, 49, from Bedale, North Yorkshire, signed up for Ultra White Collar Boxing in memory of close friend Sue Rhoney, who died from breast cancer in 2015 aged just 48.

The challenge involved eight weeks of intense fitness and boxing training, followed by a bout in front of more than 1,100 people at York's Barbican on Saturday, March 26.

Ultra White Collar Boxing is designed for people who have never boxed before, and raises money for Cancer Research.

Mr Woods, a fireman at RAF Leeming and part-time gravedigger, has previously competed in ironman events, and this year finished the 108-mile Spine Challenger race on the Pennine Way.

He had never boxed in his life, but his training paid off and he stopped his opponent two-rounds into the three-round fight.

Mr Woods, who is chairman of Bedale and Aiskew Runners, said: "It was totally out of my comfort zone. I would never have thought of doing something like this but the experience was one of the best of my life.

"The training and then stepping into that ring was just amazing."

More than 40 family and friends were in the audience to watch as he walked out to 'Under Pressure' by David Bowie and Queen.

His daughter was there to support him, and his son watched the bout from New Zealand via FaceTime.

He initially set a target of raising £800, but donations have now totalled £2,111.

"The support I've had has absolutely blown me away, and the money is still coming in," said Mr Woods.

"Sue was an amazing lady, a lovely, lovely person, and that's the reason I've raised so much. It's really a tribute to her and how close she was to so many people's hearts."