Tommy Martin has launched a search for a new boxing star.

The former English and WBA Continental super lightweight champion, who was forced into retirement by a serious head injury at the age of just 21, is aiming for the top again.

But this time Martin, from St Neots, will be plotting the career of another fighter rather than throwing the punches himself.

Now 23, he has received his training licence and is wasting no time in his bid to unearth a top talent at his new Vic’s Gym base, in Peterborough.

“It’s been very hard to deal with the fact my own career was taken away so early,” said Martin.

“This sport has been such a huge part of my life and I just can’t let it go. That’s why I want to create a title-winning fighter to live my own dreams through.

“I’ll spot the talent and I’ll plot the career - I just need someone with the commitment and desire to be a star. It could be a complete newcomer, it could be someone who has already turned pro, or it could be an amateur ready to step into the paid ranks.

“I’ve got no criteria other than they have to have the same fire and hunger to succeed as myself. I’d love it to be someone from St Neots, St Ives or Huntingdon. It would be great to find another star in this area.

“I believe I have the right characteristics to mould a fighter into a title-winner. I received great guidance myself from a top trainer in Barry Smith, and I’ve got that knowledge to pass on.

“Over time I’d like to build my own stable of boxers, but first and foremost it is about finding that one fighter to start things off.”

Martin is already involved in the development of one hot prospect. He’s co-training unbeaten St Ives talent Bradley Smith, a lightweight who has reeled off six successive victories to start his professional career.

“Bradley is a very exciting boxer,” added Martin. “He turned pro at 18 like I did, but I think he will be a later developer.

“He’s 20 now, he’s got his career off to a good start and he’s got loads of time on his side. I got too hasty and jumped into big fights sooner than I should have, but he’ll learn from my mistakes.”

Anyone interested in working with Martin should contact him via his Twitter account - @Tommy_DaGun