Former world featherweight boxing champion Barry McGuigan swapped his gloves for a spade to cut the first turf on a new housing development in Crawley.

The boxer, known as the Clones Cyclone, also presented fellow Irishman Lenny Nugent, managing director of Sussex-based goundwork firm LF Nugent, with an Investor In People award.

Mr Nugent started the firm in 1985. His group now consists of three companies: L F Nugent Groundworks, L F Nugent Developments and Handlay Surfacing Contractors.

It is based in Handcross and operates across the South-East, employing more than 100 people.

It is currently engaged on the regeneration of Trafalgar Street in Brighton. An underground car park, shops, 32 flats and four penthouses are being built on the formerly derelict site.

Group turnover this year is expected to be more than £16 million.

Mr Nugent said: "The Investor In People award reflects our contribution and commitment, not only to the economy in Sussex but also to our staff.

"Our in-house training and development programme is designed to give new and existing employees every opportunity to develop personal and professional skills.

"We were lucky to get Barry McGuigan to present the award and to turn the first turf for Beacon Heights, our latest development at Crawley."