Girl boxer beats the odds

The 19-year-old won the fight to be granted a competition licence three years ago after being diagnosed with diabetes.

And the Malthouse Gym star was celebrating last week after landing the national Class A crown at the 63.5 weight level at Manchester’s School of Boxing Excellence.

Said dad Tommy, her trainer at the Malthouse: “It’s been a battle to get a licence and we’ve really struggled to get one. The problem has been that Jeanna needs special doctors because of her condition but she’s proved that she could overcome it all.

“Jeanna was given the all-clear and to win the British title really was a terrific achievement.

“She first fought in the C class in 2009 and then had no-one to box last year because she couldn’t find an opponent.

“This time around she boxed Eastburn’s Jess Wilson in the A Class final and won with a third round stoppage.

“Now Jeanna will move onwards and will probably look to fight abroad. It’s a reward for all the hard work she’s put in.”