A welding lecturer with a dream to referee the best boxers in the world at the Olympic Games has been able to show his skills on an international level.

Simon Mullan, who teaches at Suffolk New College in Ipswich, has been working for a decade to become an international-level boxing referee.

He recently attended the World Boxing Cup in Cologne where he oversaw bouts featuring the world's most talented amateur boxers. 

Over the tournament, he refereed ten bouts and judged 31. 

Ipswich Star: Simon Mullan recently refereed at the international boxing competition in Cologne. Simon Mullan recently refereed at the international boxing competition in Cologne. (Image: SNC)

Boxing has been part of Mr Mullan's life for some time, having sparred with title winner Joe Calzaghe in his youth.

Ipswich Star: Simon has faced off against the likes of Joe Calzaghe in his youth.Simon has faced off against the likes of Joe Calzaghe in his youth. (Image: SNC)

After hanging up his gloves, he turned to coaching and trains Olympic medallist Lewis Richardson.

At the recent tournament, he was able to see a number of Olympic hopefuls in action as he hopes to someday represent Great Britain as a referee at future games.

Ipswich Star: Simon Mullan is a welding lecturer at Suffolk New College.Simon Mullan is a welding lecturer at Suffolk New College. (Image: SNC)

The 46-year-old said: “If I got the nod for an Olympic games I would be over the moon. Every level is a step to this dream."

When he was not referring he was able to spend time with team GB and have an insight into their daily routine.

He added: "To be with the people who are going to be at the next Olympics was eye opening.

Ipswich Star: Simon Mullan during the competition in Cologne.Simon Mullan during the competition in Cologne. (Image: SNC)

“I also got to ref a German female champion and several of the Cuban team who are likely to do well in Paris next year.

“Overall I loved it – it was one of the best tournaments I’ve been to, the level of the boxers and the professionalism of the coaches was on another level.”

Back in the classroom, the welding department recently created 12 boxing brackets for Ipswich Boxing Club.

Ipswich Star: Simon Mullan recently refereed at the international boxing competition in Cologne. Simon Mullan recently refereed at the international boxing competition in Cologne. (Image: SNC)

He will be taking students to the club to see their handiwork and take part in a training session next year.

Mr Mullan said: “I try and bring this experience back into the classroom at Suffolk New College.

"Planning, preparing, doing your research, time keeping, having the right nutrition, concentration, staying hydrated – everything sports people do in daily life can be implemented at college to help students in their careers.”