BOXING supporters will have their chance to win a mountain bike at a fundraising night this week.

Communities and businesses are rallying around young boxers from Spennymoor who are heading for Canada in May.

The ten, who are aged from 14 to 27 and are from Spennymoor Boxing Academy, will spend a week training at the former club of heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis.

It will cost about £5,000 to take the group and their supporters across the Atlantic.

So far about £2,000 has been raised and to boost funds further the young boxers have been presented with a designer mountain bike by Paul Donohue Cycles, Bishop Auckland.

Mr Donohue said: "The boxing club is keeping the lads off the street and it's good to be able to help out.''

The boxing club will be asking people to buy bonus ball numbers at £10 each and the winning number will get the mountain bike.

The number will be drawn at a fun night on Saturday, at Quinns Inn, Spennymoor.

The club's director of coaching, Robbie Ellis, said he was grateful for the support shown so far by businesses and members of the community.

He said: "This is a designer bike and we are very grateful. Thorn Lighting has also given us a cooker to raffle and everybody has been fantastic.

"We would like to thank everyone who has helped out so far. We cannot name everyone because there are so many but their support is appreciated.''

Anyone who can help with sponsorship or fundraising can call Mr Ellis, on 07968 205043.