A BOXING club which has helped to transform the lives of young people by delivering a knockout blow to anti-social behaviour has been recognised for its work.

Westy Boxing Club on Bridgewater Avenue has been named as the winner of the Outstanding Work in Community Safety category at the national StreetGames Awards.

The group, which is run by LiveWire, Warrington Wolves Foundation and Cheshire Police, was set up in 2015 following a spate of fires caused by youths in the area.

PCSO Tony Spruce, who has been involved in the club since it was launched around two years ago, understands only too well the difference it makes.

"There was a 68 per cent reduction in fire-related anti-social behaviour in the area in the first six months after the scheme was set up," said PCSO Spruce.

"It has helped with the problems we set out to deal with – I see it every week and it's great to be a part of that."

The awards ceremony, which was held at Warwick University, recognises projects which have had an impact on improving the lives of disadvantaged young people.

The club, which is supported by England Boxing and Phoenix Boxing Club, provides a base for young people to exercise, learn new skills and socialise.

Paul Flannery, neighbourhood engagement officer at LiveWire, said: “It’s an honour to be recognised as one of the best projects in the country for reducing anti-social behaviour and improving community cohesion.

“In just 18 months, the project has made a real difference to the lives of young people in Westy and Latchford.

“It has also provided them with some fantastic opportunities including the chance to train with Olympic and Commonwealth boxer Courtney Fry.”

Chief inspector Sarah Pengelly said the award was 'fantastic recognition of the club's success'. 

She added: "The club has grown significantly and the partnership work is a real investment in diversionary activity aiming to prevent young people becoming involved in antisocial behaviour and crime.

"The success of the project is wholly due to the passion and commitment of this teamwork."

Following the success of Westy Boxing Club, other clubs have been set up around the town. 

Chapelford Boxing Club launched in February and runs every Friday night at Chapelford Village Primary School.