BOXER Brad Pauls received a hero’s welcome when he returned to Newquay to show off the British Middleweight belt he won.

The Newquay Bomb was introduced to the crowd ahead of Newquay AFC’s game against Falmouth Town at the Mount Wise Stadium on Tuesday, July 23.

He also posed for photos and signed autographs for his fans in the clubhouse before the match.

The 31-year-old became the first British boxing champion from Cornwall in 85 years after knocking out his opponent Nathan Heaney in the 12th round at the Resort World Arena in Birmingham on Saturday, July 20.

Brad said: “It was amazing to get the reception I did at Newquay AFC. The local people getting behind their local boxer and supporting their own. It fills me with massive motivation to go and achieve more. I want to do it for the people that support me.

“Being introduced on the pitch gave me a flash back to the fight and got the adrenaline going. It was great support from the people of Newquay.”

Many of those in attendance had watched Brad’s boxing career develop over the years and were full of pride for what he has achieved for himself and Newquay.

Keith Barker, Brad’s former headteacher at Newquay Tretherras, said: “I’m so proud of Brad. The way he represents himself and the town. He is a role model now.

“So many people look up to him. Brad had some tough times at school which he will admit but he came through. We are all proud of him.”

Newquay AFC first team manager Shaun Middleton added: “I went up to watch the fight. Brad was amazing. He was fearless and gave the supporters what they wanted.

“I have seen Brad around town for many years and he always kept pushing, pushing and pushing. No one deserves it more than he does. Brad is an inspiration to the local community.”

Robbie Daly said: “I’ve been to a lot of Brad’s fights, and I always knew he had it in him.

“My son is Brad’s best friend and in his teenage years when others were going out I would see him training in the morning when I drove to work running up Trenance Hill.

“Brad is an absolute gentleman. He has always been very approachable. Even as a young kid he always did the right thing. Brad was always caring towards people.

“Brad is just an inspiration to be around and I’m so glad my son went on the journey with him. I’m sure it has made a difference to his life.”

Newquay Town Council is inviting the Newquay Bomb to attend the end of summer session at the Killacourt to show off his belts on Saturday, August 24.