TWO of the Black Country's most exciting boxing prospects have been helping middleweight world champion Andy Lee prepare for his battle with Billy Joe Saunders.

Lee will defend his WBO crown against challenger Saunders in Manchester on December 19.

To fully prepare for the clash he enlisted the help of Priory Park southpaw Ryan Aston and Rowley Regis' Tyler Denny, who trains at Coops Gym in Brierley Hill.

The duo travelled to London with Priory Park coach Paul Gough last Sunday in a move that was also aimed at helping both men prepare for action of their own at Dudley Town Hall on December 5.

Aston, who has sparred with George Groves, Carl Froch and David Haye in the past, did eight rounds with Lee before Denny stepped in for another four.

Gough said: "It was great for everyone involved. Ryan and Tyler got to prepare for their fights and help Andy Lee prepare for his big fight.

"Sparring with fighters of that calibre will only help them develop.

"It was great to try things out that we have been working on in the gym. You know how well they work when you try them out on a world champion.

"Aston did really well because he is experienced at such sessions. Tyler also made a good account of himself and Adam Booth was very impressed with them both."