A Newport boxing club that has coached youngsters since 2005 has been given £1,000 to help secure its future.
Bettws Boxercise Club meet twice a week in the North neighbourhood Hub centre in Bettws where the members learn self-defence, discipline and fitness.
Club coach Andrew Oldfield applied to Newport City Homes’ community benefit scheme and the housing association was happy to help. The club has struggled to find a permanent home in Bettws and was in danger of closing.
He said: “I grew up in Bettws and know what can happen when clubs like this shut. We have been keeping young people busy and active for 16 years. It’s been a challenge finding a permanent home for our club. The Hub is a cracking facility and we are looking forward to coaching young people there for many years to come.
“With many families and children struggling, financially and emotionally, I have helped a lot of children with fitness, discipline and learning new skills. They see what life can bring to them by putting in some hard work.
“This donation from Newport City Homes is going to help our members train safely in a nice hall. We can also keep our costs down for members and have new kit for them to use.”
Laura Palfrey, Development Partnerships Coordinator, said: “The club is a vital part of Bettws as it gives young people something positive to do in the evenings. Over the years they've had various homes around the estate. Finding a base for a boxing club is a challenge so we were keen to help them with money to help.
“We are really proud that our grant has been used to buy new kit and mats so they can train safely, and contributed towards the cost of hiring at room at the community centre.”