Bristol's boxing fraternity is to turn out in a show of support for popular coach Alan Thompson next month.

Mr Thompson's accountant, Michael Wike, was jailed for five years after stealing money from him and others.

The long-serving Empire Sports Club coach, aged 62, lost almost £200,000 – money he had planned to retire on.

When he heard what had happened, former Empire boxer Adrian O'Connor, now a publican in Old Market, decided a call to arms was necessary.

The Irishman announced plans to stage a 'Meet the Champions' night at the Coach and Horses pub in Braggs Lane on Saturday, December 5 (8pm).

"It's the least we can do, given what we all owe Alan," said O'Connor.

"He's spent the best part of 40 years running kids up and down the country and dedicating himself to developing talent. Alan has given so much time to youngsters in this city and he's helped the likes of Chris Sanigar, Glenn Catley, Adrian Stone and Lee Haskins.

"There must be hundreds of people who have benefited from Alan's expertise and dedication and I'd like to think at least some of them will turn up to support this fundraiser."

Former WBC super-middleweight champion Catley will be present, along with British super-flyweight boss Haskins and ex-British and Commonwealth champ Ross Hale. Former women's world champion Jane Couch has promised to attend, along with ex-professionals Paul Moylett, Darren Dorrington and Sean Baker.

Bristol-based promoter and manager Sanigar has offered his help in advertising and organising the event and O'Connor said: "It's going to be a real Bristol boxing occasion.

"A lot of people are appalled by what has happened to Alan and they want to do something to help.

"We've decided to call it a night with the champions and there will be an auction with lots of boxing memorabilia available."

Tickets cost £5 and can be bought from the Three Lions pub in Bedminster, the Coach and Horses and the Empire Sports Club in Newfoundland Road, St Agnes.

For further details, contact Adrian O'Connor on 07974 083166