Norwich's Nathan Dale defied the concept of ring rust as he made a winning return to boxing.

The only signs Dale were positive as he scored a 60:55 victory over Innocent Anyanwu at the Holiday Inn North in Norwich.

The result was never in doubt once Dale got into his stride - and that was perhaps as early as the second round as he showed his full range of skills – he was accurate, powerful and quick.

'Very happy,' was the succinct verdict of the 27-year-old, who had last stepped into the ring 10 months ago, but has suffered injuries that have kept him on the sidelines.

Dale wobbled his Dutch opponent twice in the second round and there was clearly a spring in his step - not quite showboating, but Dale was a happy man again.

Both fighters ended the night with minor cuts, both caused by a clash of heads, but Dale is confident he will be back again at the next Norwich show, in July.

There were also wins for city favourite Zaiphan Morris, Lowestoft's Craig Poxton, and Wisbech debutant Joe Steed.

Morris was facing the toughest fight of his career, against Southern Area featherweight champion Jamie Speight. But Morris raised his game and came through 39:38. It was a fight that had a bit of everything - lots of boxing skills, but plenty of toe-to-toe stuff which delighted the noisy dinner show crowd.

Poxton boxed his way through six rounds against the very difficult Ibrar Riyaz – a man who often gives out a loud yelp to indicate he loves a scrap. But Southern Area super-featherweight champion Poxton refused to indulge him: instead he fought well and controlled the affair, winning 60:55.

Steed is highly-thought of by trainers Graham Everett and Jon Thaxton and looked classy against the durable Danny Little. Steed had plenty of variety to his work - and his hands and feet were quick. The 40:36 verdict was absolutely no surprise as the Fenman exhibited the skills which are exciting his training team.