A BOLTON boxer is one of 12 runners readying himself to take part in the Great Manchester Run as part of 'Crolla's Army'.

Conor McMyler, aged 19, has been chosen by world champion boxer Anthony Crolla to be part of a specially selected squad alongside him.

The teenager has been an amateur boxer since the age of 11, who looks up to Anthony and has previously sparred with him at Gloves ABC.

Each member of the team was chosen to represent one for each round of a boxing fight, and will run the 10km course on May 22 alongside current World Boxing Association lightweight champion.

Anthony Crolla defends his title against Venezuelan Ismael Barroso two weeks before the race.

He will meet all of his teammates at the starting line of the race and they will then share experiences at the end. All the 'Crolla's army' runners will wear specially branded running shirts.

The boxer said: "The Great Manchester Run is one of the greatest sporting events in the city.

"Just taking part as one of the 40,000 runners and being cheered through the city centre by thousands of supporters is incredible, but to have my own team is amazing.

"I take inspiration from my team of runners who include people who've fought major difficulties in their life, including cancer, to come back stronger.

"Some have made big changes in the lives to get fit while others are raising money and awareness for important causes and in memory of loved ones."

He hit the headlines in December 2014 after a world title fight had to be cancelled after he confronted two burglars attempting to burgle his neighbour's house.

One of the intruders attacked him with a concrete slab, fracturing his skull and breaking his foot in two places.

To enter the Great Manchester Run go to www.greatrun.org/Manchester