Leigh ABC Exhibition & Awards Day 2009

Ash, Tom, Charlie, Coach Adrian Fleming, Coach George Gilbody, Ridgey, Anthony Crolla, Jonny & Michael

The 2009 Leigh ABC Exhibition and Awards Day was held at the Leigh Boxing & Fitness Centre on Saturday, with Club President, Secretary of State for Health Andy Burnham presenting the Awards. Also enjoying the day were Professional Boxer Anthony Crolla, Lord Peter Smith, Councillor Myra Whiteside, Councillor Sue Greensmith, GM Fire & Rescue Service, and Club Chairman Phillip Boardman representing GM Police.
After taking part in a full training session both Boxing Squad members, the clubs Recreational boxers and their families watched as popular MC Ron Warburton spoke of Leigh Amateur Boxing Club's work in the community with various schools, youth groups, Wigan Youth Offending Team, Community Payback, the Safe 4 Summer Campaign and youngsters throughout the borough before announcing the Boxer of the Year Awards.
Bout of the Year Award went to 13 year old Adam Ridge of Bedford High School, for his stunning come-from-behind win in the NW Region Schoolboys Championships semi-final against title favourite Jordan Fowler of Preston.
Junior Merit Award winner was Lowton High School's Charlie Munro, the 13 year old having an excellent debut season. Newcomer of the Year went to 16 year old light-heavyweight Tom Jones, in an unbelievable first season Tom took 3 ABA titles, ending the year officially rated number 6 in the England rankings.
Junior Boxer of the Year went to Westleigh High School's outstanding 13 year old Michael Connor. Taking 2 ABA titles, Michael is also included in the England rankings at number 5.
Youth Boxer of the Year Award was taken by all-action 16 year old featherweight Jonny Brown, winning 3 ABA titles and boxing the European Champion twice, while experienced and popular light welterweight Ashley Peyton deservedly took the Senior Boxer of the Year Award.

Senior Boxer of the Year Ashley Peyton with Leigh ABC President Andy Burnham MP

Leigh ABC coach George Gilbody with Tom, Ash & David

Pro boxer Anthony Crolla with Youth Boxer of the Year Jonny Brown

Junior Boxers

Anthony and Junior Boxer of the Year Michael Connor

Senior Boxers warm up

Newcomer of the Year Tom Jones with Andy

Sarah & Katie on the Heavy Bags

Anthony and Bout Of the Year Award winner Adam Ridge

Former National Senior ABA Champions Anthony Crolla & George Gilbody

Junior Merit Award Winner Charlie Munro with Andy

Leigh ABC President Rt.Hon Andy Burnham MP, Councillor Myra Whiteside, Lord Smith of Leigh and Councillor Sue Greensmith