A talented young boxer who has earned the right to represent his boxing club at a national level has won a Young Sefton Sportsperson Of The Year Award.
Caiden Thistleton, aged 15, is developing a growing reputation for his achievements and his commitment to the sport through Southport Stars amateur boxing club.
The Meols Cop High School student has twice won the Merseyside & Cheshire Open Class boxing tournament.
He was among local heroes honoured at the 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards at The Grand in Southport as he accepted his latest title from Merseyrail Head of Community & Engagement Sally Ralston BEM.
One nomination said: “Caiden Thistleton represents Southport Stars amateur boxing club and recently won the region’s Junior Class for the second year in a row.
“He will represent the county and Southport Stars ABC at National level.
“Apart from being a talented boxer, Caiden is a polite and well mannered young man.
“Caiden recently secured the Merseyside & Cheshire Open Class boxing tournament for the second year running.
“The Cheshire Open Class boxing event represents one of England’s premier amateur boxing regions frequently producing national champions.
“Caiden is dedicated to his sport training 5 to 6 times per week to maintain this level.”
Another nomination said: “Caiden is a great young man who is an inspiration to others.
“He’s won back-to-back junior class boxing championships within our region.
“He is dedicated for a 15-year-old – off the chat, never complains, listens, works hard and finds the balance for other things too.”
The 2026 Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards celebrated selfless, talented and courageous people across 13 categories at The Grand in Southport on 24th April 2026.
The Main Award was won by Queenscourt Hospice founder Dr Karen Groves MBE.
The evening was hosted by former Sky Sports News presenter Fraser Dainton with VIP guests including HM Lord-Lieutenant of Merseyside Peter Oliver OBE and Mayor of Sefton Cllr Burns.
Funds were raised on the night for the ICU Steps charity, which supports patients in intensive care and their families.
The Grand Pride Of Sefton Awards are organised by Mikhail Hotel and Leisure Group and Stand Up For Southport in association with media partners In Demand Radio with support from Southport BID.
There are 13 categories including Child of Courage, School Of The Year, Community Impact, Charity Champion and more, plus the Main Award.
Next year’s event takes place on Friday the 30th April 2027.
To submit your nomination for next year’s awards visit: Pride Of Sefton Awards
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