Long-awaited Willenhall Boxing Club moves step closer
A long-awaited boxing club in Willenhall has moved a step nearer to opening after new premises were found.
Willenhall Boxing Club is set to open in the coming months at a unit in Ashmore Lake Road.
The project has been planned for years by close pals Shaun Hargreaves and Neil Buckland, who are both stalwarts of the Black Country amateur boxing scene.
After an 18-month search the duo finally located a suitable building and are now undertaking a revamp of the interior, including the fitting of a full size boxing ring and punch bags.
Mr Hargreaves, aged 45, said he hoped the club would be up and running by the start of May.
"There's still a lot of work to do inside but we're getting there," said the father-of-four, from Stroud Avenue, Willenhall.
"There hasn't been a boxing club in Willenhall for years and we were both keen to set one up in our home town. We know there's a big demand here because so many people have asked us to start a club over the years.
"This has been a long time coming and it's great to be in a position where we are close to opening."
Mr Hargreaves said the club would be open to all ages and ability levels, with a focus on 10 to 18-year-olds.
The new premises have been provided by Willenhall-based firm Direct Carpets, while bosses at JJX Logistics donated funds to buy new equipment.
"We're extremely grateful for all the support we have had," added Mr Hargreaves.
A long time advocate of the club, Councillor Diane Coughlan, who represents Willenhall South on Walsall Council, said she was thrilled it was finally coming to fruition.
"It's fantastic news for Willenhall," she said. "The club has been talked about for a while and to see it become reality is fantastic.
"The club will give our youngsters something active to do. It's a really good project and I'm pleased we have pulled it off."
To donate to the club or for more details call Shaun on 07474 001005.
