MORE than 150 people turned out to celebrate the transformation of a former wood yard into Wisbech’s second boxing club.

Money has been donated by charities, individuals, Fenland District Council and Wisbech Town Council to help get Waterlees Boxing Club up and running.

The facility, based in a building owned by Robert Shoebridge, near the Boathouse, now has gym flooring, training equipment and a boxing ring.

NE Cambs MP Steve Barclay, the club’s honorary president, was joined by Councillor Alan Melton, district council leader, Councillor Viv MacRae, Mayor of Wisbech, and a series of other dignitaries for an open evening on Friday.

Councillor Virginia Bucknor, who has helped establish the club with her husband, Councillor Michael Bucknor, and new club chairman Bob Lawrence, said the event was a “resounding success”.

“We were delighted with the attendance,” she said.

“This building had previously been a wood yard and it has now been transformed by painting the walls, laying gym flooring, setting up a proper boxing ring and providing equipment.

“There is still more to do - we’re looking for funds to complete the changing room and shower and we need more equipment.”

Two show bouts were put on for visitors to the club and several youngsters signed up to be members.

Former boxing star Simon Lee started training young competitors at Waterlees more than a year ago as a way of “getting kids off the street and giving them something to do”.

The club is now looking for another trainer and some volunteers to help out on reception for a couple of hours every week. Anyone interested should contact Cllr Virginia Bucknor on 01945 584207.