A PROMISING boxer has been forced to put his professional career aspirations ‘on hold’ after being convicted of drink driving.

Paul James O’Reilly was banned from the road after admitting driving over the limit in an appearance at South Cumbria Magistrates’ Court.

The 29-year-old was said to be on the verge of a career as a light heavyweight fighter but was caught by police driving his Mercedes while over the limit on November 24, magistrates heard.

The court was told the shipyard worker would find it more difficult to travel to the boxing club in Preston where he trains.

O’Reilly, of Cliffe Lane, Barrow, was stopped by officers who recorded 49 microgrammes in 100 millilitre of breath, over the limit of 35.

Prosecutor Pam Ward told the court: “He was seen by officers clipping the curb in the area of Jubilee Bridge.

“He later turned in to Hollywood Retail Park and was given a breath test.”

In mitigation, Carl Millar stressed O’Reilly was a man of good of character and sincerely regretted his actions.

He said his client had been out drinking on the previous night and had three or four drinks.

Mr Millar said: “His move to becoming professional will have to be put on hold.

“He knows he is morally at fault and criminally at fault. He’s extremely remorseful.

“He knows he has let himself and his boxing club down.”

Mr Millar added: “He has a bright future ahead in his boxing career and he hopes to make good on that.”

The solicitor said the defendant also used his car to drive young boxers to the gym in Preston and to take his brother to college.

O’Reilly was banned from driving for the next 12 months.

He was also fined £250 for the offence and told to pay £85 costs and a £32 victim surcharge.

The boxer attracted previously drew plaudits when he went on a seven-match unbeaten run which culminated in a place in the England Boxing national finals.

He announced plans to turn professional in March.

*Jeff Moses, from Barrow Amateur Boxing Club, has asked The Mail to clarify O'Reilly is no longer a member of the club.