WELLING'S premier boxer is the new British Masters light-middleweight champion.

Gary Woolcombe beat Jamaican-born Delroy Mellis at York Hall, Bethnal Green, to not only win the title but continue his unbeaten professional career.

The 23-year-old turned professional in May 2003 and has won all 17 of his bouts, culminating in the title win last week.

Gary, who works in double-glazing, is hoping for a shot at a British title next year but he is also looking forward to boxing full-time very soon.

He said: "After I've done a full day's work I go down the gym from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and then I go for a five or six-mile run.

"It is tough going and takes a lot of dedication but I really enjoy it and after this title we will see what comes next."

Gary, who trains at the Maloney Fight Factory, Wotton Road, Deptford, with close friend Sam Webb, won his title after Mellis retired in the eighth of 10 rounds.

Mellis hit Woolcombe a few times with his famed bombs but Woolcombe, who is now ranked ninth in the country, was up to the challenge.

He picked his punches well and made the 34-year-old favourite stagger before eventually claiming the win.

Manager Eugene Maloney and trainer Alan Smith believe as Woolcombe matures, his punching power will reach its potential but already the hard-hitter has four stoppage wins in his last four fights.

Gary first pulled on the boxing gloves aged 10 when friends encouraged him to join them at a club.

Within six months all his friends had dropped out but Gary was enjoying it too much to stop.

He cites Marvin Haglar as his hero saying he is an "all-round great fighter".

Gary said: "I don't know what it is about boxing, maybe I just like being punched.

"I often get a little nervous in the dressing room but once I am in the ring all the nerves go and I think Well, I can't get out now, best get boxing'."