Knockout donation for boxing club

Cleland Miners Amateur Boxing Club received the donation from Persimmon Homes North Scotland, as part of the builder’s Community Champions scheme.

The club, founded in 1986 by local boxer Ally Gilmour, is run by a group of volunteers who work tirelessly to promote health and fitness among the young members.

James Doherty applied for the funding for the club, which he says will benefit both children and adults in Cleland that train at the Omoa Road who train at the club in Gibson Street five nights a week.

He said: “We are over the moon to receive support from Persimmon Homes and plan to use the money to replace the current poor lighting in our gym.The club is in an area of high unemployment making it more important than ever to make our training accessible and affordable for everyone.

“It is not just about fitness, we endeavor to teach our members discipline, good manners integrity and self-respect along with respect for others. Boxing is giving them a vision, a dream and to help focus on a bright future.

"It is helping divert their time away from crime and disorder and putting some goodness back into the local community.”

James MacKay, managing director for Persimmon Homes North Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support this group located near to one of our new developments, Lime Tree Park on Bellsdyke Road.

“It’s great to see this funding going to a sporting cause. Sport in general is extremely important to health and wellbeing and being able to support Cleland Miners Amateur Boxing Club, which actively engages young people and promotes inclusive pathways for self-development is exactly what we want to do.”

The Community Champions programme enables clubs, groups and good causes to apply for funding up to the value of £1,000 to match money they have already raised themselves. Each month Persimmon Homes North Scotland donates two cash pots - each worth up to £1,000.

To apply,visit www.persimmonhomes.com