A BOXING club has been given a makeover and a £30,000 injection to help young fighters prepare for international competitions.

The Port of Tilbury were so inspired by the dedication of the people that run Chadwell St Mary Boxing Club and the impact it is having on the local community, that it offered support of £10,000 a year over the next three years.

Local builders M. & J. Spindley Ltd were also on hand to give the club a much needed facelift.

Chadwell St. Mary Boxing Club is recognised as the most successful boxing club in Essex having won national and international awards and competitions over its sixty years.

The boxing club is run as a not-for-profit organisation and has more than 54 active members, as well as the six coaches who volunteer to support the development of the club members.

Jenny Josling, the club secretary, has seen many of the members grow and develop from a young age, pushing themselves to their limits and achieving goals.

Some club members have gone on to compete in various competitions, including Jordan Purkiss who reached the semi-final in the senior novice’s competition and came 3rd in England.

Jordan said: “This club has changed my life. I dedicate myself to boxing, training 3 times a week at the club and 4 times a week at Blackshots Gym.

"It can be hard work but it’s worth it to make my family, friends and fellow boxers proud.”