THE Port of Tilbury were so inspired by the dedication of the people that run Chadwell St Mary Boxing Club and the impact it is having on the local community, that making their decision to offer support of £10,000 a year over the next 3 years, and to get help from other local businesses including builders M. & J. Spindley Ltd who are giving the club a much needed facelift, was easy.
Chadwell St. Mary Boxing Club is recognised as the most successful boxing club in Essex having won national and international awards and competitions over its sixty years of history. The boxing club is overseen by a committee of six people who operate the club as a non-profit organisation and has over 54 active members formed of 38 boys, 7 girls and 9 adults, as well as the 6 coaches who volunteer to support the development of the club members. The renovations are just about complete and it will transform the club into an environment that will benefit all its members and perhaps encourage and few new ones (see before and after images).
The club offers a welcoming and supportive atmosphere to all of its members and guests and aim to create a community within the community which will continue to inspire for generations to come. Jenny Josling, the club secretary, has seen many of the members grow and develop from a young age, pushing themselves to their limits and achieving goals.
Some club members have gone on to compete in various competitions, including Jordan Purkiss who reached the semi-final in the senior novice’s competition and came 3rd in England. Jordan said: “This club has changed my life. I dedicate myself to boxing, training 3 times a week at the club and 4 times a week at Blackshots Gym. It can be hard work but it’s worth it to make my family, friends and fellow boxers proud.”
