BOLTON'S leisure chiefs could soon be asked whether they want to ban boxing.

The British Medical Association has asked all local authorities to stop boxing events being held on council premises.

Now Bolton's leisure bosses are considering putting a report to a committee meeting and letting councillors decide what they want to do.

Peter Stybelski, director of leisure services, said: "The report would put forward both sides of the argument and it would be for members to come to a decision."

The council currently only promotes "kid glove" boxing where youngsters wear padded headgear and points are only scored for technical expertise rather than knock-out blows.

Blows

Cllr Gerry Riley, leisure services chairman, added: "There is a vast difference between professional and amateur boxing. There are no blows to the head and the referee will stop any excessive contact.

"It is something which members will have their own very strong views about and it is something which will provoke discussion."

The BMA has issued a leaflet called Boxing Packs A Punch which highlights the dangers of boxing.

The BMA hopes local authorities will distribute the leaflet widely to schools and sports clubs in order to raise awareness of the risks associated with boxing.

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