Autographed photographs of some of boxing's legends are to adorn a Bradford gym in the hope of inspiring young fighters to become the next Junior Witter.

Boxing fanatic John Burton has given his collection of 130 pictures to the Steven Thewlis Boxing and Martial Arts gym in Caledonian Street.

Mr Burton, 65, started his collection more than 40 years ago and has met many of the sport's greats like Muhammed Ali and Mike Tyson.

But a house move from Bradford Moor to Clayton has meant he has had to find somewhere for his boxing memorabilia to go.

He said: "I started to collect the photos in the 1960s and I have been collecting them ever since.

"In my old house they were all on display on my staircase but my new house is a bit smaller so there isn't the space."

Gym owner Steven Thewlis said he had known Mr Burton all his life and was thrilled to receive the collection. He said: "It was a lot for him to offer them to us. But he can come and see them anytime he wants. I am hoping that these will act as an inspiration for the lads training at the gym."

In the four decades that Mr Burton has been collecting the photos he has met more than 20 world champions and he is hoping to add Mr Witter - who became Bradford's first boxing world champion recently - to his list.

Mr Burton said: "He's done Bradford proud. It's about time we had a world champion. I am hoping to meet him for a photo at his civic reception."

He also believes that Junior Witter has what it takes to defeat his likely next opponent Ricky Hatton.

"He's got a really good chance. They both have different styles but it's going to be a great fight!"

Mr Burton used to box as an amateur in his school days but he confessed he gave it up because he did not like getting hit.

His favourite boxer was Muhammed Ali closely followed by Mike Tyson.

l Anyone who is interested in taking up boxing or martial arts at the gym can get in contact with Mr Thewlis on 07756 508364.

e-mail: sunita.bhatti@bradford.newsquest.co.uk