A BOXING club which has proved a hit during its short lifespan is inviting more people to get involved in the project.

Great Ayton Boxing Club was launched in April last year and proved a great success from the outset, attracting dozens of members within weeks of opening.

One of its aims was to steer people away from anti-social behaviour, but it suffered a severe setback when £2,600 worth of boxing equipment was stolen in a raid six months after it opened.

A 20ft container with a 16ft boxing ring, gloves, punch bags, floor mats and other Pro Box equipment was stolen by thieves, who used a lorry with a crane attached to steal the entire metal crate.

But despite suffering these setbacks, the club is still going strong, with three coaches leading weekly, hour-long training sessions.

On June 12 Great Ayton Boxing Club will hold its first annual meeting and is encouraging local residents to come along and meet with committee members and volunteer coaches. They are also looking for people to help with the club's management.

Chair of the boxing club’s committee and Hambleton District and Great Ayton Parish Councillor Richard Hudson, said: “The club has received a great deal of support from the local community over the last 12 months.

“Despite a number of setbacks it continues to provide fitness training for people of all ages and to promote the importance of exercise, diet and discipline to its members.

“If anyone would like to get involved in helping run the club please come along and talk to committee members to find out what you can do.”

The club was set up with grants from Broadacres Housing Association, Hambleton and Richmondshire Community Safety Partnership and North Yorkshire County Council’s 4 Youth Service, with support from Hambleton District Council and North Yorkshire Police.

Additional funding was secured from local businesses, the Ayton Masonic Lodge and the Harbour Police at Teesport.

The meeting will be held at 7.30pm on Wednesday, June 12 at Great Ayton Working Men’s Club.

For more information contact Peter Cole, Hambleton District Council’s business and communities officer, on 01609-767212.