New gym equipment lifts youngsters’ spirits
A boxing club which works with local youngsters has been celebrating following a donation of equipment by a local community group as part of its efforts to improve the area.
The Northgate and North Road Community Cohesion Partnership (NNCCP) donated a rowing machine and skiing machine to the Ward Degnans Boxing Club, in Holly Street.
Launched in 2011 by brothers Isaac ‘Argie’ Ward and Francis ‘Frankie’ Ward, the club has proved popular among young people and adults alike and works closely with the council’s young people’s engagement and justice service to support its youth intervention work.
Argie said: “This is the first of any kind of charitable donation we’ve received, and we’re thrilled our work with local young people has been supported in this way.
“We’re very grateful to NNCCP and look forward to continuing to work with our young people and local partners to improve the area for everyone who lives and works here.”
Janet Bowles, chair of NNCCP, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support Argie and the club by providing some much-needed new equipment. Sport is a great way to get young people inspired and motivated, and the efforts of Argie and others really do help make a difference in young people’s lives.”
Councillor Jim Garner, the council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, added: “We work closely with local residents, businesses and our partners to help ensure Darlington is a safe and pleasant place for all to enjoy.
“The NNCCP is already making a difference in its local area and by offering support and joining forces with others, such as Argie and the boxing club, I’m sure it will continue to go from strength to strength.”
The NNCCP is made up of local residents and businesses and works closely with the council, Durham Constabulary, Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service and other partners to tackle issues raised by local people to improve the area.
If you live or work in the Northgate and North Road area and would like to find out more about the group and get involved, you can email Janet Bowles at [email protected] or local ward councillor Sonia Kane at [email protected]
Photo caption, standing L-R: Richard Garrett, community safety manager; Chris Knox, head of community safety; Leanne Hopper, young people’s engagement and justice service manager; Janet Bowles, NNCCP chair and Argie Ward, and Isaac Ward Jr on rowing equipment.