Police Boxing Club spokesman Terry Maxwell confirmed yesterday that the black tie event, which in its heyday attracted capacity crowds, first at the Police Recreation Club and later at the much larger Empire Room of the Southampton Princess, will take place this year on Friday, November 17.

Again to be held at the Southampton Princess in what is now the Mid Ocean Room, the champagne and cigar-only show will, however, break with tradition, allowing ladies to attend for the first time.

In the past organisers were criticised for allowing men only.

At least two female fighters are expected to appear on the evening's card which will also feature boxers from visiting New York and Boston clubs.

"I can't ever see it being an all-Police affair again,'' said Maxwell. "We just don't have enough boxers in the service.

"But it's shaping up to be a great evening. A lot of our fighters are already in training.'' Maxwell noted that both men and women would be required to wear formal attire.

Tickets will be issued by invitation only.