THE Mayor of Macclesfield, Cllr Mrs Joan Barnes, advanced ABA coach John Hart, pro boxer Steve Bell and ABA North West president Ted Peate were on hand to present awards at the Macclesfield Boys Boxing Club last week.

The club's students have recently participated in, and passed with flying colours, their first 'Kid Gloves' scheme at the Paradise Mill gym, and the Mayor welcomed such an innovative and successful initiative which teaches youngsters the basic skills of boxing and fitness, while helping to lessen the risk of getting involved in anti-social behaviour on the streets.

As well the 'Kid Gloves' awards, presentations were also made to the best junior and best senior club boxer for the 2002/03 season - the recipients were Amin Mamoon and Steve Hough respectively. Amin's uncle received the club's shield on his behalf, while Steve received the Lonsdale Golden Gloves (Green) award.

An introductory presentation was made in the presence of the special guests, during which the local youngsters warmed up, produced some technical sparring, and then both juniors and seniors showed off their new skills in attacking and defending, together with their level of fitness.

The Macc Boys Boxing club would like to thank Total Solutions for their generous donation to club funds. The kids would also like to thank Phil Sothern of Sculpit Specialist Sports, Sainsburys, Helen Perry and all the coach's wives.

  • THE club would still like to hear from new potential sponsors - contact coach Jeremy Hough on 07714 345852.