A BOXING club is to move into a civic hall thanks to a Sport England grant.

The £50,000 from its Community Asset Fund will allow Clayton Amateur Boxing Club to transform Clayton Civic Hall into an up-to-date new sporting centre.

John Brindle, its head coach, said: “We are a not-for-profit organisation, run entirely by volunteers.

"This £50,000 funding award is vital so we can meet growing demand and continue to help young people in our local community.

"Our relocation to Clayton Civic Hall means we can not only help more people, we can also expand what we do including encouraging more females to get involved with our programmes.

“Through investing in high-quality equipment, we will also be able to provide opportunities for young people and adults with disability or additional needs alongside our usual offering.”

Hyndburn Leisure Trust operates the Clayton Civic Hall facility on behalf of Hyndburn Borough Council.

The boxing club will be joining other clubs and organisations who are also located there.

Cllr Miles Parkinson, leader of Hyndburn Council said: “The club, the Clayton community and all those who have been involved should be very proud of this achievement and we are really pleased they have chosen the Civic Hall as their new home."

Clayton's Cllr Melissa Fisher said: "The news that Clayton Boxing Club finally has new premises in the heart of Clayton is fantastic for local residents."

Lyndsey Sims, chief executive of Hyndburn Leisure Trust said: “The club has a strong track record of supporting people to manage behavioural and mental health issues and offers a positive activity for young people, who may otherwise engage in negative pastimes. "