AFTER losing her first two fights, Sylvia Indrakova gained a stunning win over Wye Boxing Club's England prospect Sarah Whistance.

Sylvia gained a unanimous decision in this week's Hereford showdown, controlling the fight throughout.

The 27-year-old Lydney housekeeper (pictured) originally hails from Czechoslovakia. She joined the Lydney gym around a year ago.

Lydney Boxing Club coach Bryan Higgs said: "Sylvia boxed brilliantly to defeat Sarah Whistance.

"Sylvia is a shy sort, but extremely keen. When I first saw her in the gym I thought she had done some boxing before, but she told me she hadn't.

"Her first fight was against a very tough opponent, then she lost on points on our open-air show."

Sylvia now has competition in the Lydney gym following the return of another local girl, Becky Preest.

Bryan said: "Women's boxing seems to divide people, some love it and others hate it.

"I think Sylvia and Becky will spur each other on and they'll be able to spar together."

At one time Lydney had more than 14 active boxers on their books, but numbers have dwindled this year.

Having two strong female contenders in the gym should help keep the club's name in the South West spotlight.

Bryan added: "I think it's great. Generally, it's not been the best year for us because so many shows have been cancelled."