WILLIAM Farrell came up trumps in his first boxing contest despite nearly missing it due to high blood pressure.

Mr Farrell, of Pew Hill, Chippenham, pushed himself to the limit in training over the last ten weeks, as part of the charity Zero to Hero fitness programme.

It culminated last Saturday with a match in front of nearly 2,000 spectators at the Oasis in Swindon.

The 43-year-old arrived pumped up and ready to fight, but was told he was not allowed to get in the ring because his blood pressure was too high.

After time alone, the level dropped and organisers were happy for Mr Farrell to fight.

He said: “I stepped through the curtains and the noise was off the scale, with people chanting and singing my name. I finished the fight with the tank empty; everything I had was used up.

“When I was lucky enough to be awarded the win by the judges, the place was rocking. The noise was deafening.

“This incredible journey is something that will stay with me for life.”

Mr Farrell, who works for Honda, has raised more than £700 for the Acute Stroke Unit at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, after a close friend suffered a stroke last year.

Donations to his appeal can be made at www.justgiving.

com/William-Farrell3 Anyone interested in becoming a contender in Zero To Hero Swindon season two can call 01275 595959, or email makemeahero@zerotoheroboxing.com for details.