TALENTED young boxers will follow in the footsteps of heavyweight hero Lennox Lewis when they train with his former club in Canada.

Globe-trotting Spennymoor Boxing Academy will join members of Waterloo Regional Police Boxing Club for a week in May.

Since forming in 1991 the Spennymoor club has taken part in shows and competitions in Ireland, Denmark, New Zealand and Chicago, USA.

A team of ten Spennymoor boxers and five officials will make the trip to Canada and at least 30 spectators plan to go along with them to be there to cheer them on from the ringside.

Director of coaching Robert Ellis said: "Without being a member of Spennymoor Boxing Academy some may never get a chance of visiting such an incredible place.

"I had 96 fights when I was younger and the best memories are of my travels around Europe.

"We'll share training tips and the experience and confidence the lads and one girl - Kate Reid - gain will be great for their careers."

Mr Ellis and honorary secretary Paul Hodgson said the trip will reward the club's hard work and discipline, which they believe steers some young people away from drugs and crime towards a healthy, skilful hobby.

Their views were echoed by members of Spennymoor Town Council, who will sponsor 15-year-old Billy McAloon with £100.

Council leader Bill Waters said: "We've supported other young boxers in the town in previous years because we know how good an opportunity it is for them.

"We hope they all enjoy the trip."

The club requires sponsorship money to pay for flights, £345 each, and is planning several fundraising activities during the next few months, including a sports dinner.

Mr Ellis said: "We've already raised about £1,000 and some excellent sponsors will help us make it."

To sponsor the club call Robert Ellis on 07968 205043.