A TRIO of young sports stars have landed trophies to get the new era in their boxing club off to a flying start.

Tom Barker, Liam Shaw and Joe McPartland stepped into the ring to represent Bishop Auckland Amateur Boxing Club at a Northern Clubs contest at The Ladle in Middlesbrough.

The club, which is based in Woodhouse Close Estate, Bishop Auckland, has been under new management for 18 months and seen a complete turn around in its fortunes.

Fully licensed Amateur Boxing Association coaches Chris Robson and Nick Morgan, and assistant coach Ellis Ellingworth, now run the club with help from volunteers.

Since taking over, they have helped raise money to replace the roof and windows and refurbished the clubhouse.

There are 45 members, aged eight to 30 years old.

Spokesman Peter McPartland said: "These three wins give the club a good reputation and encourages the other members to do their best for the club."

The club meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Anyone interested in joining can call coach Chris Robson on 07932 371360 for details.