FLYWEIGHT champ Ady Lewis may yet defend his British title locally despite a council ban on boxing.

Bosses at Bury FC say they would be delighted to welcome the "Mighty Atom" to their Gigg Lane ground.

The council ban, which was approved by 23-19 votes last week, has made national and international headlines.

The decision outlaws professional boxing on council premises: but fights may still be staged at other venues.

Mr Nev Neville, the Shakers' commercial manager, said the club would be "more than happy" to allow Ady (21) to fight there.

A council spokesman confirmed that members would have no grounds for refusing a licence for a Gigg Lane contest, providing it met national health and safety guidelines.

Mr Stuart Andrews, of Ady's management firm Tara Promotions, welcomed the offer, but said the weather may play a crucial part.

Summer is running out, and Ady is already booked to fight in September in Widnes against Peter Culshaw for the British and Commonwealth titles.

Meanwhile, the British Boxing Board of Control is still considering whether to sue the council.

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