Islington Boxing Club have received a financial boost of £1,230 following a fundraiser at the Royal Oak pub.

Islington Gazette: Lewis Whelan-Barone and Kyron Hughes (pic Owen Harvey)Lewis Whelan-Barone and Kyron Hughes (pic Owen Harvey) (Image: Archant)

The cash injection came thanks to ongoing support from landlord Martin Flynn, who wanted to stay connected to the sport when he moved to the capital five years ago and committed to holding an annual event.

Flynn has continued his backing for the Hazelville Road club and said: “Any person who walks into the boxing club and sees all the young people using the space knows that it is an amazing place.

“It keeps the kids off the street and keeps them from hanging out on the corners and allows them to channel their anger.

“The boxing club really doesn’t get the attention it deserves, it does so much for the community. We are very lucky to have the boxing club.”

Flynn wants to continue in the background helping and since he has the facility, the Royal Oak pub will continue to use his space to fundraise and help the community.

Islington BC manager Reggie Hagland added: “A big thanks goes to Martin Flynn and Annette Parefett (daughter of former British and world champion Terry Allen) who brought along her dad’s title belts to the fundraiser.

“ A big thanks to all who supported the night and help push the club forwards in the right direction.”

*Two young Islington boxers saw their hopes of success at the National Schools’ Championship finals dashed at Grantham Leisure Centre on Saturday.

Despite enjoying some success in the first and second rounds of the Class A under-50kg decider, Lewis Whelan-Barone lost a close split decision against taller rival Ali Aldhufairi (Longsight).

And team-mate Kyron Hughes lost a unanimous decision in the Class B under-48kg final to experienced opponent John Dugdale (Leigh) after another close encounter.

Both Islington youngsters will be competing in the forthcoming Hull and Bristol Box Cup tournaments, where it is hoped the experience gained from the Schools’ Championship will spur them onto success in their respective competitions.