BOLTON boxing sensation Amir Khan's childhood coach has spoken of his pride after his former protege nominated him for a national award.

The 20-year-old Olympic silver medalist has put forward former trainer Gerry Jones for the BBC Sports Unsung Hero award.

Amir revealed how Mr Jones, now aged 75, gave up his own time to help him when he was aged just 10.

Mr Jones, of Victoria Road, Horwich, said: "I was really pleased that Amir had nominated me because I didn't expect it at all.

"I'm so proud of all he's achieved. He's a fantastic boxer and has worked really hard."

Amir put forward Mr Jones as he launched the BBC sport hero awards this week.

Fifteen regional winners will be selected before the national winner is announced during the BBC Sports Personality of the Year show on December 9.

Amir admitted he was taken to Bolton Lads and Girls Club as a youngster because he was hyper-active. His father, Shah, thought boxing would help burn off some of his excess energy. It was at the club that Amir met Gerry, a former professional boxer.

Father-of-one Mr Jones said: "I knew Amir was something special as soon as I saw him throw his first punch. We just used to enjoy each other's company and he was a pleasure to train. He has very fast hands."

Mr Jones, a former textile worker, was soon training Amir voluntarily every Saturday morning.

He drove him from home to the club where they would work on his fitness and sparring techniques.

Their special bond continued right up until Amir's Olympic bid, which saw him collect a silver medal in Athens, aged 17.

Mr Jones no longer trains Amir, the Commonwealth light welterweight champion.

This is because Amir is now a professional boxer and cannot have an amateur trainer. However, the pair are still firm friends.

Amir said: "Gerry really is my unsung hero. He gave up so much of his own time just to help me and I really want people to recognise what he did for me.

"Part of my success in undoubtedly down to him and he has never told anyone about it.

"What he did means so much to me."

Mr Jones still coaches today, although he is temporarily out of action following a hip replacement operation in March.

He has been helping to train young boxers at Bury Boxing Club, including Amir's younger brother, Haroon, on a voluntary basis.

Mr Jones said: "Haroon could easily be as successful as Amir. He has the talent and just needs to work on his fitness.

"I can't wait to get back to coaching. I can't imagine my life without boxing," he said.