PROFESSIONAL boxing is set to make a return to Clacton after almost 80 years away from the town.

The Princes Theatre is hosting a series of bouts on November 17 in what is thought to be the first time professional boxing has been put on in Clacton since 1939.

Back then featherweight Charlie Mack lost to Mike Kavan in a bout at Butlins in February of that year.

Now a top line-up of fights is returning to Clacton, with a bill featuring international fighters as well as the chance to see some professional debuts and Essex bouts.

Stepping into the ring will be Colchester boxer Tommy Jacobs, taking on Albanian Xhuljo Vrenozi for the super welterweight intercontinental title and final eliminator for the WBF world title, while Navid Iran will face up to Ben McGivern for the Professional Boxing Council light heavyweight international title.

Also gearing up for the night are Commonwealth Games gold medallist Iain Weaver and also Gareth Hogg in a WBU title fight, with their opponents to be confirmed.

Clacton’s very own Ben Cook will make his professional debut against Northern Ireland’s Chris Wong in the featherweight class.

Mick Skeels, cabinet member for leisure at Tendring Council, which runs the theatre, said it promised to be an exciting night of fighting.

“Boxing offers an exhilarating show, which is why the top fights in the world attract huge venues such as Las Vegas and even bigger audiences,” Mr Skeels said.

“This programme of fights offers audiences not just one bout but more than 10, including some real big names, meaning there will be a whole evening of thrills and closely-fought contests.

“It is brilliant that we are bringing boxing back to Clacton, as the sport if part of our resort’s heritage, and I think the crowd has a great night ahead of it,” he said.