The Times Amateur Boxing Club reopened this week after receiving a much-needed facelift.

The north London club, which celebrates its 90th birthday this year, invited Lord Mayor Cllr Una O’Halloran as special guest to carry out an official ceremony.

And she said: “The re-opening of the club, in the ward which I represent, marks yet another step along it’s journey which now spans almost 100 years.

“Founded in 1927 by the Times newspaper in Fleet Street, the club continues today thanks to the incredible support received from everyone who has been involved in voluntarily running the club.

“Times ABC, as it is known, is totally reliant on a team of people who give up their time each week, year in, year out, to help manage the club and it is due to their efforts and the support of sponsors and partners that the club is able to continue today.

Thanks to the benevolence of Islington Council, you are able to use these premises, and due to the generosity of the Crossan Family Foundation, Powerday, the Big Lottery Fund and Islington Council’s Community Chest and Cripplegate Foundation you have been given the support and the funding needed to complete the re-furbishment and obtain much needed extra equipment to meet the demand being shown in the club and sport.

“Times ABC celebrates its 90th birthday this year, so let’s make sure we continue to grow the success of the club and see it still flourishing when it reaches 100”.

Bill Cox, on behalf of the Crossan Family Foundation and Powerday, added: “I’m employed by Powerday and my chairman Mick Crossan has for the last five years funded development and benefits to local amateur boxing clubs across London.

“Through this initiative he has made a massive impact on young people’s lives and communities. As an extension of the Powerday support he has created the Crossan Family Foundation who are now directly helping young people in the margins of society and ensuring their opportunities and life chances are enhanced.

“This transformation of the club is a real time benefit to the local community in which I also live, and I would also like to thank all of those who have given time, funding and support to this iconic London club. We wish you all the very best, so onwards and upwards again, building on an impressive record for voluntary sport.”