FORMER world middleweight boxing champion Chris Eubank was ordered to 200 hours' community service yesterday after admitting to causing grievous bodily harm to two women at a New Year's Eve fireworks display.

The boxer was told by Judge Richard Brown at Lewes Crown Court that he had considered sending him to prison. "I hope in your case such an order could utilise your undoubtedly sporting talent for the benefit of the younger members of the community," said the judge.

The court heard that the women were burned in an explosion during a fireworks display by Eubank on the beach at Brighton on New Year's Eve, 1996.

Eubank said there had been no pre meditation: "When I was going to the hospital with the girls, seeing the distress they were in, I was deeply ashamed.

"I have always tried to carry myself in a proper fashion to inspire youngsters by my behaviour." He also said he was deeply sorry for what happened.