SIX years hard training has paid off for local Thai boxer Becky Berry.

The 21-year-old student who competes out of Prestwich Thai Boxing Club based in Bury Old Road Whitefield recently clinched the Northern Area title.

And she did it the hard way defeating old rival Nicola Fearnly in her own back yard over in Leeds.

According to coach Rick Lewis, Becky controlled the fight from early in the bout after settling in the first round.

She took a few good shots from the Yorkshire girl who was left in no doubt she'd have to step up a gear to deny Becky.

But round by round the Radcliffe lass wore her opponent down with her superior technical ability and sharpness.

She took the belt on a unanimous decision and won over the partizan local crowd to receive a great ovation.

Becky now hopes to defend her hard won title before moving up to fight for the British championship.

Coach Lewis, who holds several titles himself, will be making sure she keeps in tip top shape while bringing on several of his other up-and-coming fighters at his club.

Classes start from five years up to open age and new sessions are to begin soon, contact Rick on 0161-773 8006 or 07973 697683 for further details.