A BOXING club has received a £1,000 donation to enable 15 young fighters to visit Ireland and compete on the international stage. 

Rayne Boxing Club received the donation from Persimmon Homes Essex as part of its Community Champions initiative. 

The club, which hosts more than 80 members and has 16 competitive male and female boxers including national and international champions, has been raising money to take a small group of boxers to Ireland this year to compete on the international stage.

The club relies on donations to provide opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to become healthier both physically and mentally.

Persimmon Homes attended an afternoon training session to meet some of the aspiring young boxers and were joined by Braintree Council leader Graham Butland.

Persimmon construction director Steve Osborne said: “We’re delighted to award this donation enabling young boxers the chance to fight on the international stage.

“Local sports clubs are vital for local communities enabling people of all ages to improve both their mental and physical health. We wish the club the best of luck at their competitions later this year.” 

Rayne boxing club manager Tom Paget added: “As a club receiving this funding means a great deal.

“With the ever rising cost of living, running a voluntary organisation has never been so challenging.

"This £1,000 donation will not only go a long way but will make a huge difference to the impact we as a club can have on our community.

"Thank you Steve and the team at Persimmon Essex for their support.”