Hemlington Boxing Club keeping young people away from trouble
The Club is run by local amateur boxers and is proving popular
We are hearing how a new boxing club in Hemlington is keeping young people from trouble and off the streets.
It is run by local amateur boxers who say they are concerned about the amount of crime and anti-social behaviour in the community.
The community interest company – supported by funding from the Government’s Safer Streets 4 initiative – has seen the derelict former Cleveland Juniors compound next to Hemlington Recreation Centre given a complete makeover.
The £15,000 grant has helped with the refurbishment of the building and the provision of new equipment.
The club is run by John Waldon, John Waldon Snr and Denis Lowe and they are being supported by Recovery Connections, the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner for Cleveland and Middlesbrough Council.
Founder John Waldon said: “When we asked local kids what they most wanted to see the local area, the majority said a boxing gym.
“We were really concerned about the amount of crime and antisocial behaviour, and we know from our own experience how a gym like this can give young people the discipline to keep away from trouble and off the streets.
“By joining up they’ll get fit and make new friends – and who knows, we might just produce a world champion, and that would put this place on the map for all the right reasons.
“A great many people have put in a lot of hard work to make this happen, but I’d particularly like to thank Joanne McCabe, Hana and Pauline for their hard work and support.”
Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Steve Turner said: “My team and I have put a huge amount of effort into Hemlington alongside our partners over the last 18 months and have already seen major improvements in crime and ASB reports.
“That said, we always knew there was more to do and It’s fantastic to see this dream become a reality. There’s no doubt the Hemlington Boxing Club will be an important part of the local community for many years to come and its positive impact will be felt across the community.
“Boxing may not be for everyone but for many it helps develop discipline and focus, confidence and self-esteem - and those are great things for people of all ages.”
To find out more, email Hemlington Boxing Club at hemlingtonboxingclub@outlook.com or find the club on Facebook.