A TEAM of 14 young boxers have returned home after a trip to Canada.

Spennymoor Boxing Academy did the town proud when they visited the town of Kitchener to step into the ring with boxers from world heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis' amateur club, the Waterloo Regional Police Boxing Club.

They put on a good display for the 28 supporters who made the transatlantic trip, and were beaten by the hosts 4-3, with one bout drawn.

The young boxers also did some sightseeing, visiting Niagra Falls and the Amish Menomite village and market at St Jacob's.

Coach Rob Ellis said: "Tours like this are what amateur boxing is all about. The squad was one of the fittest and best I've been involved in and the supporters are without a doubt the best.

"The bouts were valuable for the lads' careers, but the whole trip is the experience of a lifetime for them. Many would not get to see these incredible places. They have seen some spectacular sights which have been life-changing. They realise how lucky they are and we have got to thank the local residents and businesses who made it possible with sponsorship."