Sandwich Amateur Boxing Club founder Frank Cornwall has entered into his 48th year of training men, women and children – and this season he’s delighted to see the club continue to soar.

The twice weekly sessions at Sandwich Leisure Centre in Deal Road, see an average of 20 youngsters and 18 seniors put through their paces.

They train to their ability with the encouragement they need to build stamina and perfect their technique.

At least once a week they enter the ring for specific coaching on how to prepare for a fight.

“The club is really running well at the moment – I’m over the moon with it,” said Mr Cornwall.

Known to everyone simply as Frank, he first set up the club at the former Penguin Club. Then it moved to the Bull Inn at Eastry. The third gym was in Strand Street, which they sold, donating £57,000 for the building of Sandwich Leisure Centre.

The investment was on the proviso the club will always have somewhere to train.

It allows the weekly subs to remain low: £1 per child and £2.50 for adults.

Mr Cornwall has four coaches: Max McCarthy, Anthony Briggs, Steve Smith, and Neil Douglas.

All are CRB checked and extremely dedicated to passing on their skills.

“Newcomers are more than welcome, they will be fully supervised,” he added.

Beginners start off learning boxing techniques, and increasing fitness by doing press-ups, sit-ups, burpees, and squat thrusts.

There is no combat until they reach and attain a decent standard. If they want to box, they have to pass a medical and get an Amateur Boxing Association medical card.

The club has a good record at competitions.

Every few weeks, they compete somewhere in the country. The next is at Aylesham Boxing Club. Those who are not interested in competing go along to train.

If you are interested in attending, turn up on Mondays or Thursdays at 6pm to 7pm for juniors and 7pm to 8.30pm seniors. Entry is £1 and £2.50 respectively.

For information, call Sandwich Leisure Centre on 01304 614 947.