Big-time amateur boxing returns to Sussex next Saturday when Hove Town Hall stages the semi finals of the National Novices Championship.

The show is being promoted by Southwick-Savages ABC and it is the first time that Sussex has staged the semi finals of a national competition.

The host club's Dean Larter and Steve Reed will be flying the flag for the county on a night when it is hoped Sussex boxing fans will turn out in force to support the event.

Larter is the reigning light-welterweight champion, although last year's success came in the ten fights and under category.

A year on, with more experience under his belt, Larter will be bidding for a place in the final of the 20 fights and under section as he takes on Corporal Parkinson.

Reed, who has moved up to heavyweight, fights in the ten and under class of his division. He will fight Londonder Junior McDonald.

Southwick-Savages' Keith Funnell said: "This is the first time that the semi finals of a national competition have been held down here.

"It is a great honour. We are hoping anyone who enjoys boxing will come along to support what should be a great show."

The bill features 16 bouts, with doors opening at 4pm and the first contest at 4.30pm.

The ten fights and under semi finals will take place before an interval, with the more experienced boxers fighting after. The show should be finished by 11pm and Steve Holdsworth, of Eurosport, will be MC.