THE Bolton Lads Club Box Cup still proved a resounding success, despite the late withdrawal of the home boxers.

Traditionally one of the club's biggest fundraisers of the year, organisers of the Town Hall event encountered a few unforeseen problems when several of their members withdrew in support of departed coach John Hart.

Amir Khan was at ringside to watch his bother Haroon, who was supposed to top the bill, although he was forced to withdraw after his opponent turned up five kilos over the weight limit.

But despite the complications, seven bouts were able to go ahead, and the event managed to raise a whopping £81,000 for the club's coffers.

"The show was a huge success once again, and it proves that people in the town are very supportive of the club," said chief executive Jeremy Glover.

"It amazes me every year how deep the people who attend our shows dig into their pockets, so in that respect, we are very happy.

"Obviously, it was a disappointment not to be able to see Haroon fight because he was in tip-top shape, but hopefully we can see that fight materialise later in the year.

"We would have liked to have a few more home boxers in the bill, but these things happen, and I'm sure it did not affect the enjoyment for the people who came."