A BOXING club which trains young people to become champions of good behaviour as well as winners in the ring has been given a £5,000 boost.

Spennymoor Boxing Academy was awarded the cash by Durham Police Authority through its community safety grant scheme.

It will use the money to buy equipment and modernise facilities at its base in Spennymoor Leisure Centre.

The club was founded in 1991 by top amateur boxer Robert Ellis, who is now its chief coach.

It has produced a string of successful boxers, including national champions, and has taken groups of young boxers on international tours, including visits to New Zealand and Chicago.

Councillor Anne Wright, police authority chairman, said: "The academy is well run and highly respected within the community.

"It provides an opportunity for youngsters of both genders to benefit from the physical training, self-discipline, motivational and citizenship skills on offer."

Boxing academy secretary Paul Hodgson said:

"We plan to use the grant in ways that enable more young members of our community to come through the club's doors and benefit from what is on offer."

To qualify for the award, the club had to show that it would be used to help prevent crime or improve community safety.

Mr Hodgson said: "We hope that by providing young people from a variety of backgrounds with worthwhile activities in a safe environment we will help reduce all aspects of anti-social behaviour.

"We insist on good behaviour from members at the club and encourage them to be good citizens in their wider communities."