THE first boxing match to take place in an English casino will be at the Grosvenor on Derry's Cross tonight.

Casino bosses said they would be holding eight bouts at the venue – a first for a casino in this country, they said.

This week, city boxing legend Scott Dann joined casino general manager Jay Pillai for promotional pictures before the big fights.

The Grosvenor chain has held matches in casinos in Wales but tonight will be the English debut in Plymouth.

Former Commonwealth boxing champion Nicky Piper will host the night. Nicky was crowned Heavyweight Champion in 1989, and awarded an MBE for his services to sport in 2006.

Two casino players and a member of staff will take part in some of the bouts. They have been trained by local boxing clubs. Mayflower Amateur Boxing Club will also be providing boxers for some of the bouts.

Casino bosses hope to raise £3,000 for the Mayflower Amateur Boxing Club.

Mr Pillai said: "This is the first time a boxing match has taken place within an English casino and we are looking forward to bringing some of the excitement and thrill of Las Vegas to Plymouth."

There are tickets still available. The event starts at 8pm. Tickets can be purchased from Andy Bacon on 01752 668922 or 07854 526948.