Pupils at Neale-Wade Academy in March were treated to a knockout boxing coaching session by one of England’s most exciting talents.

St Ives and England star Shona Whitwell joined March Boxing Club coaches Raf Tichanow and Bernie Wing at the school’s weekly training session, which is held to encourage the school’s youngsters into getting active.

The former ABA title-holder and her father and coach, Steve, put 18 pupils through their paces in the school’s sports centre, giving them tips on pad work and combinations.

Coach Bernie Wing was delighted to see the young star lend a hand at the session.

He said: “All the kids have really enjoyed having Shona here. She gave a great speech earlier and hopefully having her here will encourage more people to get involved with boxing and join the club.”

Shona, who has won five national titles during her career, said she enjoyed showing future boxing talents the ropes.

She said: “I’ve never really done anything like this before, but it’s been nice to come to a local school and get involved.”

The 18-year-old, who fights out of St Ives Gym, has had a successful year, and has now set her sights on representing her country in the European Championships.

“It’s been a busy year,” she said.

“I’ve had the England Youth Championships which I won, and hopefully I’ll be selected for the European Championships which are in September.

“It’s been a bit frustrating at times because of fights being called off because of people pulling out and injuries, but hopefully I’ll find out if I’ve been picked about a month before.”