Seven fighters from Oldham-based Isaan Muay Thai have returned from Bangkok with a seven-strong haul of medals after competing in the annual World Muaythai Federation championships.

The week-long tournament, staged in the Thai capital earlier this month, pitted the youngsters against opponents from more than 30 nations, many from the sport’s traditional powerhouses in central Asia.

Leo Deakin, 12, from Royton, and Danny Ferris, 17, of Fitton Hill, both topped their divisions, while 11-year-old Mikie McCombie from Derker completed the club’s gold-medal hat-trick.

Silverware was collected by Tommy Sheridan (Failsworth), James Deakin, 10 (Royton), Jac Yates, 14 (New Moston) and 22-year-old Mason Booth, also from New Moston.

Head coach Ste Donnelly praised the squad’s resilience, noting that Team GB faced several former Soviet-bloc nations renowned for their strength in the ring.

“This was a very tough competition for Team GB,” Donnelly said. “We faced most of the countries from the ex-Iron Curtain, including Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, who are extremely tough fighters.”

He added: “Big thanks to all the parents who travelled to support the boxers - it’s been tremendous. And huge thanks to WMF event organiser Pete Spensley for all your hard work.”

Sandee Keatkhomtorn, a Bangkok gym owner, provided free training for the British squad throughout the event and arranged daily transport and logistics.

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