MOST people would consider Thai boxing to be a brutal martial art. But it does have a sensitive side as a recent tournament proved when it raised more than £200 to help a baby suffering from a terminal illness.

The tot, aged just 22 months, was a twin until her sister died, and she has now been diagnosed as having the same disease is expected to only live to the age of 15.

So Thai boxing at Kangley Bridge Leisure Centre, organised by UAO Promotions, was a good fundraiser for this as well as a top night of action.

A large crowd was treated to top-class action as some of the sport's best exponents competed for supremacy.

Wayne Henry, from Brockley, outpointed Hither Green's Sam McRae, while Lakwinber Sekhon tackled Usman Raja and emerged with a points victory after another close three-rounder.

Brett Trefey faced Kassim de Brookley in a spirited middleweight bout. Kassim failed to beat the count in the third round after a flurry of punches and kicks from Brett.

Next, fans were treated to a fantastic display by the Raja Neresuan JR display team. By this time, the crowd were well warmed up and ready for more.

In the next contest, Richard Fenick faced Tony Bailey, but Bailey was no match for Fenick who dominated the fight until the ref stopped it in the third round.

In a contest to decide the next UAO champion over five two-minute rounds, Suliman Raja took on Jason Woodham.

Each exchanged kicks and punches before Raja, with a combination of punches in the second, floored Woodham.

Despite a brave effort he could not beat and had to be assisted to his feet.

In the next UAO title bout Kirk Jackson, from Lewisham, faced Barry Jordan at welterweight over three three-minute rounds.

After a cagey start, both men let loose and the first and second rounds were wildly exciting as each man floored the other and fortunes swayed.

The start of the third round opened with both men throwing combinations of kicks, knees and punches.

By the time the bell rung to end the contest, both were looking very tired but Jordan took the title on a split points verdict.

In the last bout of the show, Irwin Ford gave a determined display against Hugh Thomas, from Sydenham, for the light heavyweight IMAF British title only to be outpointed on a split points verdict. Well worth a rematch.

Organisers are planning to hold the fourth Five Nations Championships, with a special England versus USA team event next May, in Chiswick, to be shown on Sky Sports.

If you would like to sponsor the next show or wodudkl ldike more information details on Thai boxing, call Kru Danny on 07956 495037.

November 27, 2001 12:29