Anthony Joshua's signed shorts under the hammer

The items, being sold as a single lot, will be auctioned to raise money for the funeral of tragic young Telford boxer Dylan Brassington on Wednesday.

Dylan, who was a well-known figure at Wellington Boxing Academy, died earlier this month at the age of 21.

Former super-middleweight world champion Richie, who is president of the club, normally holds regular auctions to raise money for cancer charities.

But he was so moved by Dylan's story that he decided to dedicate his next auction to the young boxer's memory.

The shorts and programme, which is for Joshua's British and Commonwealth title fight with Dylan Whyte, are both signed by the world heavyweight champion, who takes on Joseph Parker in a clash of the titans in Cardiff on March 31.

Joshua will put his WBA, IBF and IBO world titles on the line when he takes on Parker at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. If he wins, he will add New Zealander Parker's WBO strap to his growing collection.

Richie said the young boxer, who lived in Dawley, had had a great future ahead of him.

"He was a very good boxer indeed," he said.

"He was a really good fighter, and a terrific lad. I couldn't believe it when I heard about his death."

Richie, also from Telford, said both items should be a big draw for collectors of sporting memorabilia.

The auction, at Halls headquarters in Bowmen Way, Battlefield, Shrewsbury, starts at 10am.

The items can be viewed on Tuesday or on the day of the sale from 9am.

People not able to attend in person can leave a maximum bid with the auctioneer by telephoning 01743 450700.

Alternatively, to bid online, register at the-saleroom.com/halls before the start of the auction.

Anyone who would like to donate can find his page at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/brittany-whelan