Amy Wharton quite literally struck a blow for women's rights by winning the first all female boxing match staged in Wiltshire.

Now the 23-year-old hopes more of the county's female population are encouraged to take up the sport.

Her debut clash with more experienced Droitwich opponent Jackie Masters formed part of the Walcot gym's 12-bout tournament staged at the Premier Club in Ermin Street.

The Walcot featherweight, who only seriously took up the sport in February, imposed her authority from the start and forced a standing count in the second round before the referee intervened in the third.

"A winning start, what more could I ask for," Wharton said afterwards.

"I had no game plan because I had no idea what to expect but as soon as I got in the ring the nerves disappeared."

Wharton, originally from Rotherham in South Yorkshire, first walked into the Walcot gym two years ago with the sole intention of improving her fitness.

But it was not until earlier this year that the stable girl at Roger Charlton's Beckhampton yard, firmly embraced the noble art.

Now she can't wait to find another willing opponent and was quick to encourage more women to don the gloves.

"I loved the experience and I'm hoping to do it again soon," she said.

"It's difficult to find fights because there aren't many lasses out there doing it. It would be great to see more women involved.

"They are probably worried about getting smacked in the face and ruining their looks but that doesn't concern me.

"I know that my trainer would step in if it looks like I'm being hurt."

And Wharton immediately dispelled any of the myths that stereotype female boxers she is currently undertaking a college course to qualify as a beauty therapist.

"Beauty therapy is something I really want to do as a career, but if I'm good enough at boxing I would consider taking that up full time if I'm good enough."

Wharton became Swindon's first competitive female boxer after former Walcot pugilist Kelli Salone had her scheduled ground-breaking bout cancelled more than five years ago.

Salone was due to meet Melanie Newbury at the Crosslink Centre in 1998 but her Welsh opponent withdrew in a dispute over the rules. Salone did not return to the ring but is now a major draw on the Ultimate Combat circuit.