BASINGSTOKE boxer Dean Francis will fight for the British Light-Heavyweight Title next month – more than five years after he last claimed the Lonsdale Belt.

The 39-year-old, who returned to the ring last December following a three-and-a-half year absence, will take on Bob Ajisafe at the City Academy, in Bristol, on November 8, with the winner crowned British champion.

Francis said: “It’s finally here again and I am really pleased.

“I only began my comeback last December and I cannot believe how lucky I am to have got back to this level again. If I put a good performance in here I will be right up there where I left off.”

Francis is bidding to become national champion for a third time – and while he is now based in Bristol, the boxer wants the people of Basingstoke to turn out in force to support him.

“I am a bit disappointed that I was not able to get the fight on in Reading but I live in Bristol now so it is very much a home fight for me,” Francis said. “He has got to come on to my turf and try to take the belt.

"I am hoping to have good support from Basingstoke. My family and friends are all coming down and I hope the whole town really gets behind me. At the end of the day I am from Basingstoke and I will never forget that.”

Tickets for the show are available by calling the box office on 01179 496699.