A BOXING club has been awarded funding to help young people get into the sport.

Boxers at Durham Community Boxing Club, based in Belmont, have purchased new gear to cope with burgeoning interest, including specific equipment for their growing number of female boxers.

The club has around 45 members who travel from as far afield as Crook and Ludworth, Consett and Coxhoe to train at Belmont.

Coaching focuses on general fitness as well as boxing skills, discipline, and respect for your peers.

County Durham Housing Group provided £500 to allow the club to purchase new gym equipment and head guards, as well as body protection designed specifically for female boxers.

Club spokesman Paul Lysaght said: “With bullying, obesity, unemployment and mental health issues above the national average in Durham, we do a lot of good work with young people.

“We appreciate any help we can get with the club, which is growing at an alarming pace.

“The funding will hopefully help us to attract new members from all over Durham to come and train, socialise and help the local police with antisocial behaviour issues in the area.”