Ashton boxing club hopes to raise money for a minibus

An Ashton-based amateur boxing gym have raised over £4,000 through a sponsored 12-mile run, in the hope of raising funds to purchase a minibus.

Jimmy Newall opened Newall's Boxing Academy almost three years ago, becoming a prominent figure within Tameside for aspiring fighters to look up to.

Jimmy said buying a minibus will enable the boxers to travel together to and from bouts.

"At the minute, we're relying heavily on parents giving the kids lifts," He said.

"Surrounding gyms constantly have to come to us and the gym gets packed; we just want to be able to go out sparring to them, without having the pain of co-ordinating it all and trying to round up enough cars to fit everyone in."

On Sunday 3 September, eighteen amateur boxers set off from the Hare and Hounds Pub in Hurst Cross at 9:45am.

After passing through Ashton town centre, Droylsden and Openshaw, they headed to their destination of Old Trafford Football Ground.

A number of parents and coaches cycled alongside the runners to ensure their safety for the duration of the journey.

Jimmy said: "Everyone got lots of sponsors and all who started the run finished it within an hour and forty-five minutes.

"Everyone gave 110% and it was a great turnout - with a really good attitude from all who participated."

One parent, who attended on the day, said: "The kids run regularly as part of their training, but never on a scale as large as this.

"Jimmy works full time around his coaching and gives up a large portion of his week to train the kids.

"His passion for both boxing & passing on his knowledge is evident in his commitment, he strives to bring out the best in them all and often introduces additional sessions that are of no benefit to him, but of great benefit to the boxers, in the run up to bouts."

Jimmy said he started saving up for the minibus around three months ago and as well as fundraising from the club members, he has been 'putting bits of money away' and selling belongings to bring together enough to invest in the new mode of transport.

Newall's Boxing Academy has boasted a successful season since it began in September, with one trainee even being crowned a national champion.

The club prepare to show even more talent at an upcoming show on Saturday 16 September, which will see the next generation of dedicated fighters in the ring at Ashton Masonic Hall.