A former heavyweight boxing champion has kept his driving licence after being spared disqualification due to his charity work.

Scott Welch was caught speeding in his Land Rover on the A259 in Hove in 2023.

But “The Brighton Rock” was spared disqualification due to the exceptional work he does with children in the community, sometimes driving more than 1,000 miles a week to events.

Giving evidence, Mr Welch said: “I moved to Brighton and turned over a new leaf. It was the best thing that ever happened to me.

“Because of my success I led my life wanting to help others and I have done it for the last 25 years.

“If I have to rely on other people then that will be major mentally as well. My days couldn’t start at 5am, we wouldn’t be getting as much done and saving as many people from what they get to do.”

The court heard that Welch, 56, was caught doing 39mph on a 30mph section of Kingsway in Hove on August 15, 2023.

The former WBO World Title contender had already picked up points on his licence in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

Welch, of Old Fort Road, Shoreham, won the WBO Intercontinental heavyweight title, beating Joe Bugner in Berlin in 1996.

He now helps to run homes for children with behavioural issues and supports them through boxing.

The former professional boxer also told the court he had been pushing to get Adaptive Boxing in the 2028 Paralympics.

Welch was granted dispensation for exceptional hardship, meaning he would not be disqualified from driving.

Delivering the verdict, the magistrates said: “You are upwardly mobile in the community and beyond. The individuals the charity helps would miss out on many opportunities.

“We sincerely hope that you are enthused by having a driving licence and keep to the speeding limit.

“The fact that you are an inspiration to others means you need to lead by example without exception.”

Welch was given three penalty points and ordered to pay £558.