Maidstone boxer Sam Noakes is the new European lightweight champion - taking his tally of belts to five.

Noakes added to British and Commonwealth titles with a dominant points victory over Frenchman Yvan Mendy.

He also holds WBO International and WBC International Silver crowns.

Topping the bill at York Hall in London on Saturday night, the 26-year-old was taken the distance for the first time.

But he won every round against a durable opponent who maintained his proud record of never being stopped in 56 fights, with all three judges scoring the bout 120-108.

“I knew he was going to be tough but I always had in the back of my head, I thought I might just get him,” Noakes told TNT Sports.

“I was close but then I was like, ’Ooh, I’ve got him’ and then I rushed a little bit and he shelled up.

“He’s a veteran of the game. The first-ever boxing show I went to I watched him box and I was still just an amateur at the time.

“It’s mad to be in there mixing it and winning every round against these geezers. I’m just happy to be here.”

Noakes (14-0) thanked promoter Frank Warren, manager Francis Warren and trainer Al Smith after the fight.

They make quite the team as the Maidstone man’s career goes from strength to strength.

Asked what comes next, Noakes added: “These boys know the game better than I ever will.

“I just keep training hard, keep doing what I’m told, and keep working and keep chopping away and the belts show that.”