The Malmesbury League of Friends (MLOF) has recognised the importance of the recent Mental Health Awareness Week with a £3,000 donation to Malmesbury Boxing Club.

Volunteer head coach Mike Rees, a former police inspector and amateur featherweight and light-welterweight national champion, is particularly keen to encourage more young teenagers and adults to join the club. The club operates two evening training sessions each week, helping the young boxers to develop their fitness and self-confidence in a friendly and disciplined environment. The club currently has around 40 regular members, who are instructed and trained by Mike and four other volunteer coaches.

Boxing, according to former world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno, can have a significant beneficial effect on both one’s physical and mental health, particularly for the young.

Mike Rees said: "Boxing undoubtedly has positive effects on both physical and mental health. Many parents of the young boxers here have told me they have noticed how their children’s fitness and self- confidence has improved from attending regular sessions here. This donation will really help.” David Hide, MLOF chairman said: “ We are always keen to encourage those, particularly young people, to participate in healthy, character-building activities. The Boxing Club, under Mike’s leadership, is doing a first class job and fully deserves our support.”