ONE OF Lancashire’s top sportsmen, boxer Michael Jennings, is to appear in court charged with assault.

Jennings, 33, who has fought professionally for 12 years, was arrested after what police describe as a ‘domestic incident’ at his home in Chorley.

The former WBU world champion, of Grey Heights View, will appear before South Ribble Magistrates’ Court on May 27 charged with Section 39 assault after an alleged incident on April 24.

Police said the former British welterweight champion was charged last week and has been granted unconditional bail pending his court appearance.

His solicitor, David Edwards of Stanley H Cross and Co, said: “Michael is a man of good character who vehemently denies this allegation.”

In March, Jennings was forced to pull out of a British title eliminator against Gary McMillan after he ruptured ligaments in a knuckle on his right hand.

He had been due to appear on Sky Sports in the main undercard bout ahead of Ricky Burns’ world title defence in Glasgow.

Jennings has a huge fan base in Chorley and has lent his support to numerous charities in the town.

He has also worked several times with Chorley Council, giving out Chorley Smile awards to community groups and individuals.

The highlight of his 39 fight career came when he headlined Madison Square Garden in New York in February 2009 in a bout with Miguel Cotto, which he lost in the fifth round.

Jennings is also a musician, performing as the drummer for indie/punk band The Shoks.

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