KIDDERMINSTER kickboxer Drew Neal has bounced back from a serious injury to retain his British title for the eighth year running.

The 27-year-old personal trainer overcame a severe knee problem to win the WAKO British Championships under-84kg division in Nottingham on Sunday.

Although his injury restricted his kicking, forcing him to rely on punching, Neal won all four of his fights convincingly including a final victory over a strong Bristol opponent.

"This is the eighth year running that I have won this title and it was extra special to me as this was the first tournament I have done for almost 12 months due to a serious knee injury," said Neal.

"I will have surgery in March which will make me fit to fight in the World Championships in Portugal in November as I have been selected again for the British team."

Neal works as a personal trainer and kickboxing instructor at Fitness First in Kidderminster.