ST HELENS boxer Ian Halsall is hoping to build on the successful start to his professional career when he fights Liverpudlian Phil Smith for the vacant British Masters Bronze bantamweight title.

The bout, which takes place at the Hilton, Manchester Deansgate on 31 January, is Halsall’s fourth as a professional after returning from a three year break from the ring.

Halsall, who works full time as a gas engineer with Helena Housing, is targeting progression through the ranks and would like to follow in the footsteps of fellow Sintelliner Gary Davies in challenging one day for the British title.

The 28-year-old said: “I am aiming for a British title – the world is a different level so I’d rather be honest with my ambitions rather than dreaming about it and not make it – the British or Commonwealth will do for me.”

Victory at the end of the month would be a good stepping stone as he creeps up the rankings with each bout.

Having fought Smith as an amateur Halsall, who hails from Haresfinch but now lives in Parr, knows what to expect from the bout.

But more than anything he is glad to be putting his skills to good use again after becoming disillusioned with the fight game.

He said: “I boxed at Lowe House for ten years – from age 14 – but I was getting no decisions at amateur level and got disheartened by the sport.

“But then one of my coaches Dave Gibson said ‘have a go at going professional’ - and so far I have fought three and won them all."

Halsall is boxing out of the Peak Fitness in Derbyshire Hill, coached by Dave Gibson and Mark Frodsham, and has signed a three year contract with VIP Promotions.

Anybody interested in buying tickets for the fight should ring Ian on 07591 611539.