A LONG-AWAITED bout between Jack Langford and Scott Wilson is due when championship boxing returns to Bideford on Sunday.

Many of the top amateurs from Devon, Dorset, Cornwall and the Channel Islands are on the bill for the regional round of the ABA Championships.

Home favourite Langford is ready for a shot at the England youth squad member when the action gets under way at Bideford ABC's gym on Clovelly Road Industrial Estate.

The pair were due to meet at the same venue last month but Langford was frustrated when his Plymouth opponent pulled out at short notice.

Bideford's Ben Owen and Ray Penfold are also in action, as well as boxers from other North Devon clubs.

Doors open 12.30pm and the boxing starts at 1pm. Entry costs £5 for adults and £3 for children and pensioners.

Former Bideford amateur John Van Emmenis has been completing his final preparations for his rematch with Jamie Speight at the Riviera Centre in Torquay on Saturday.

The North Devon professional hopes to avenge the defeat he suffered when the pair met in a thrilling clash at the same venue last October.

Van Emmenis, 28, said: "This time it is over a longer duration — six three-minute rounds as opposed to six two-minute rounds.

"I have always felt my stamina in the ring is a tremendous asset, so those extra six minutes will work to my advantage.

"It is the first time for both of us over the distance, so that could prove a leveller."

The Mayo Boxing Promotions bill includes seven bouts, all featuring at least one fighter from Devon.

And Van Emmenis, boxing at super featherweight, expects the crowd to be fired up when he steps into the ring at the top of the bill.

"Jamie is from Kingsteignton so he is the local boy in Torquay, but I should also be well represented in the crowd," he said.

For tickets, call Van Emmenis on 07772 9741623.