VALE MP Alun Cairns experienced a knockout visit when he ventured into the ring at an amateur boxing club.

Former professional boxer and boxing legend ‘Barry Bomber’ Michael Smyth showed him the ropes at Rhoose Amateur Boxing Club’s training session recently.

Club organiser Mr Smyth and Lee Barratt provide children across many age groups with boxing expertise and fitness training.

Mr Cairns was shown training techniques, and learnt about the history of the club the challenges of raising funds to keep boxing clubs operating.

Alun said: “I was delighted to have been invited to visit Rhoose Amateur Boxing Club and meet with Mike and his group. Boxing is a sport I really enjoy, and I must pay credit to the work the coaches do to train so many children. Skills they not only use in sport, but essential life skills that they can use out of the ring.

"I stood in the ring and watched youngster Jay Munn go through some of his combinations. He really impressed me as an individual talent, but the whole club is so well run by Michael Smyth and his team of coaches.”

He added: “Clubs like this are vital to our communities, but they can often be confronted with substantial running costs and paperwork to operate.

“Rhoose Amateur Boxing Club is a terrific example of the community helping youngsters from across the Vale. I will work with the ‘Barry Bomber’ Michael Smyth to ensure any potential funding and support can be accessed."