EMERALDS ABC’s Johnny ‘Be Good’ Ward clinched a superb victory at the National Championships in Sheffield.

In the semi finals Ward, coached by Emeralds head coach Liam Lathbury, came up against hot favourite Shawn Michael Vary, the North East Counties champion, the Wiltshire fighter winning by a split decision.

Taking on Bobby Carter, of Hartlepool ABC in the final on Sunday, 14- year-old Ward clinched a unanimous points decision.

The club’s Martin Lathbury said: “It’s a fantastic achievement for such a young club seeing that we haven’t been open for three years yet.’’ Emeralds held their first show of 2015 at Chippenham’s West End Club last Saturday.

The guest of honour was Swindon former welterweight favourite Ricky Porter, and the host club ended with seven wins and five losses.

The award for best home boxer on the night went to Tommy Cawley, despite his defeat to Benji Prosser-Powell (Hamilton Greens ABC), while Leo Swinfen’s clash with Cameron Ford (Synwell) was named fight of the night as the home fighter lost a close split decision.

Eleven-year-old Charlie Hill, only eligible to box in a competitive bout following his birthday a few days’ earlier, Leeroy Johnstone, aged 13, and Jade Croom, 15, were all making their debuts.

John Sykes defeated Wessex’s Alex Hall unanimously, while James Grogan earned a split decision against Chris Stephens (Torfaen Warriors) and Alex Davies beat Connor O’Hara (Southampton). Cameron Agnew beat Malmesbury’s Alex Wride, while Emma Hansleman won a split decision against Sarah Blewdon (Wessex).