YOUNGSTERS from Bishop Auckland Amateur Boxing club are enjoying a taste of paradise this week as they take part in the club's first overseas trip.

A squad of ten boxers from the club are visiting part of central Europe known as the Bohemian Paradise, in the Czech Republic.

Since a new management and coaching team joined the club, which is based on the Woodhouse Close Estate, two years ago it has enjoyed a new lease of life.

They have raised money to replace the roof and windows and spent hours painting and refurbishing a former scout hut into a clubhouse.

The week-long visit to Jicin, an hour's drive away from Prague, will be one of the biggest achievements in more than two decades of the club.

It is hoped that the visit will not only be a wonderful experience for the 12 to 22-year-olds taking part but will also help to boost the club's reputation and encourage new members to join.

Before the trip, vice president Peter McPartland said: "We want to get more kids coming through the door and show that we are a professionally run club.

"We've come a long way in less than two years and we've some talented and dedicated members.

"The response we got from foreign clubs wanted to pair up with English clubs for trips, which could end up being an annual exchange, was overwhelming."

The squad and almost 20 supporters travelled to the Czech Republic last Wednesday where boxers will take part in a tournament and train with the Tiser School of Boxing from Prague.

Mr McPartland said: "It is going to be a great experience, particularly for those younger boxers who wouldn't get to travel to places like this without going with the club. We'll visit Prague but also get to appreciate the country's culture while staying outside the main city.

"They will gain great international experience and do some quality training, it will also help build team spirit and pride.

"We're grateful to the local people and businesses who have sponsored us."

Anyone interested in joining or offering sponsorship to the club can call coach Chris Robson on 07932 371360 for details.