A Worcester man won't only be fighting an opponent when he steps into the ring- he will also be trying to knock out a devastating disease which claimed the life of his beloved grandmother.

Connor Mitchell is taking part in charity boxing event Ultra White Collar Boxing in aid of Cancer Research, and as well as raising money for its cause, is hoping to dedicate a victory to the person who was "like a mum" to him.

He says he wants to do his grandmother, Ellen Teresa Gimson, proud after she died in 2009.

The 19 year-old said: "My nan was like a mum to me, she spoilt me rotten and was always there for me whenever I needed her.

"I love her to bits, and so did everyone else who knew her as she was so kind to everyone she met.

"I wanted to do something for charity to help other people, just like she always did. I want to make her proud of me.

"When I'm tired in training I think of her and it gives me more motivation, and in the ring when I'm fighting she will be my inspiration too.

"I will be dedicating the victory to her, if I win."

Mr Mitchell, of Warndon Villages, is currently five weeks into his training regime and says he is enjoying the experience.

The former Nunnery Wood High School student said: "I already practice martial arts Wing Chun and Muay Thai, but as boxing is more of a sport it's a lot more competitive, even if you're not doing it professionally.

"Training has been absolutely amazing and is really intense. It's a lot of fun.

"I just want people to know it's for a good cause ultimately, and if they could donate to help stop cancer claiming more lives, that would be great."

He will be fighting his opponent over three rounds on Sunday, August 30, at Worcester's Sixways Stadium.

To donate to his cause visit justgiving.com/Connor-Mitchell1.

For more information on the boxing event, go to ultrawhitecollarboxing.co.uk

justgiving.com/Connor-Mitchell1/