READING-born professional footballer Marvin Bartley is branching out into the world of boxing promotions – and his first venture is a big event in the town, writes Anthony Smith.

The former Bournemouth, Burnley and Leyton Orient midfielder has launched Platinum Boxing Promotions aimed at showcasing local talent.

Bartley, who is currently playing for Scottish Championship club Hibernian, also hopes the venture will offer youngsters in the area a route into the sport.

The 29-year-old said: “Anybody familiar with my background will know that every success I’ve had in football has come from hard work, dedication and a steely determination to succeed.

“I plan to take this same attitude and commitment into this business venture.

“But aside from that, I take me social responsibilities seriously and see this as a way to engage with the local community.

“Its often said that boxing provides great discipline, so if this venture enables me to help some kids change their lives for the better then that would be a great reward for me personally.”

Bartley is busy planning his first marquee event at Reading's Rivermead Leisure Centre on March 26.

The night will incorporate some of the best up-and-coming boxers from the area and Bartley hopes to draw in a big crowd.

He said: “I’m quite lucky that though my sporting connections I'm able to get great giveaway prizes for any fans that are interested in coming to my events.

“Moreover, I’m able to provide a great spotlight for any fighters that sign up to my promotional company.

“As well as that, through my partners USANA and ELITIAST I’m able to give my fighters the nutritional advice and boxing equipment they need to succeed.”

He added: “I have visited a number of the gyms in Reading and seen just how dedicated and hardworking a lot of these guys are.

“All they need is for someone to give them the opportunity to fight locally in front of their home supporters. Luckily I'm in a position to make this a reality.

“It’s quite funny actually as when I played for Leyton Orient I was able to pick the brains of Matchroom Boxing’s Chairman Barry Hearn, who just so happened to be affiliated with the club.

“I’ll take those nuggets of information and use them to mould my organisation into a successful one.”

Bartley has a number of prizes up for grabs for boxing fans including a signed pair of Anthony Joshua gloves.

For more details follow Bartley on Twitter at @dothebartman1

Bartley's brother, Mark, is the former Reading Town FC manager and is currently boss of Marlow FC.