A PRIEST is leading a fight to get youngsters off the streets by getting them to take up boxing.

Father Patrick McMahon, of St John’s RC Church in Chorlton, is urging teenagers to pick up the gloves because he says the discipline involved can deter them from a life of crime.

Fr McMahon, who has been the priest at the High Lane church for 11 years, said: "There are a lot of problems with crime and gangs and I want to encourage kids to take up boxing.

"It’s a real disciplined sport and an art as well, rather than a violent activity that a lot of people might think. I think it can offer a good positive use of children’s time and of course it’s good both for helping them to keep fit and to build up their confidence."

And although Fr McMahon doesn’t train the youngsters at St John’s Boxing Club, he’s a regular spectator at their sparring sessions at the centre on Chequers Road.

"It’s great seeing what they can get out of it," he said.

The church’s boxing club was originally started 20 years ago, but closed down in 2005 because the building needed refurbishing.

Fr McMahon and his parishoners have spent the last two years raising money to get structural repairs done and have fitted the venue out with a new boxing ring and training facilities. The club, which is split into two groups - juniors of nine-to-15-year-olds and seniors of over-16s - has also been given new kit.

Around 40 youngsters have recently joined the club since it reopened its doors after refurbishment in September.

But Fr McMahon is keen to encourage more children and teenagers to join.

"I want them to know how much fun it can be and what benefits they can get for their health and self-esteem," he said.

The club is a member of the Amateur Boxing Association and encourages its young fighters to enter competitions. It is also intending to put on exhibition matches.

Fr McMahon added: "And with the increased interest in boxing across south Manchester because of Ricky Hatton and the others, now seems like a good time for youngsters to get involved. I think we’re flying the flag for Chorlton."

For more information, call St John’s Church on 0161 881 3558.

BOXER John Murray got the ‘British Invasion’ of Las Vegas off to a winning start with a points verdict over Miguel Munguia at the MGM Grand Ballroom on the eve of the main event last weekend.

The Levenshulme lightweight admitted, after an average performance, that he had perhaps been pre-occupied with his pal Ricky Hatton’s big night. Ricky lost his fight with Floyd Mayweather the following night. He is now aiming for a British title showdown with former Hatton opponant Jon Thaxton in the New Year, and insists his focus will be sharper once he gets home and back down to serious business.

"With Ricky’s fight being such a big one, maybe there was a part of me which wanted to chill out and enjoy the fight.

"I found it tough to get going, and was too slow at times, and Munguia kept coming in with big winging shots, so it was just a case of grinding out the win."

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