Budding boxer John Doran is hoping to punch his way to national glory.

The 12-year-old has fought through to the Schoolboy Championship finals, in Mansfield.

He has a date with Merseyside opponent Anthony Hanna.

And he is confident of returning home with silverware – in the process flying the flag for Harwich Amateur Boxing Club.

“I feel great and confident,” said the youngster, who is a member of the travelling community, based in Weeley.

“I don’t feel nervous and don’t expect any butterflies, either.

“I feel I’ve improved a great deal since I joined the club two years ago, especially in terms of defence and keeping my guard up.

“For that, I’m really grateful to head coach Martin Webb and coach Marcus Poston.

“They’ve really helped me progress.”