A YOUNG Worcester boxer discovered his prized possessions had been stolen from his home just minutes before he stepped into the ring for a crucial contest.

Jon Roberts' family home was broken in to and many of his belongings taken, just half an hour before the start of the match in Coventry for a Midland schoolboy title.

The items taken, which included a plasma screen television, Playstation 3, games and ipod, were all gifts from his parents for his many achievements in boxing.

Jon's father David Roberts said: "Nothing was taken from the rest of the house, only things from Jon's room, which makes me think that it was someone jealous of his achievements.

"I am so angry that someone could do this."

Mr Roberts, of Walnut Avenue, Brickfields, said he had a call from a neighbour about the break-in half an hour before Jon was due to step in to the ring on Sunday, February 3.

"We were all at Coventry to watch Jon, the whole family," he said.

"It was supposed to be a special occasion, but this just totally ruined it and Jon was so upset it had a big effect on his fight.

"He would have won if it were not for this."

The distraught 14-year-old, who is a member of Worcester Amateur Boxing Club, has now appealed for the return of his belongings.

"I'm really gutted that my things were taken," he said. "I don't know why anyone would want to do this."

The burglary was reported to police who are now investigating.

A spokesman said: "We can confirm that there was a burglary at this address and a number of items were taken."

Anyone with information or who is offered goods under suspicious circumstances should contact police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, quoting 485S030208.