Former world champs are contenders for a day

Former heavyweight world champions Tim Witherspoon and Leon Spinks attended the home of Police Boxing at the Metropolitan Police Training College in Hendon, North London, last week for an insight into the Contender Am-Box programme.

The course, which is accredited by the ABAE, was being delivered by Cliff Perkins of the Metropolitan Police ABC and assistant coach Helen Smith at the purpose-built £1.7m facility, which is the Police Community Clubs of Great Britain's boxing centre of excellence.

The former champions helped students on the pads and offered coaching tips, as well as sharing their own experiences of using sport to channel energy and keep them away from crime.

Tim told the ABAE that programmes such as Contender Am-Box help to build relationships and trust between young people and the police. He added that he would be encouraging the British Police Clubs' sister organisation in the US, the Police Athletic League, to add Contender Am-Box to its programme of activities.

Metropolitan Police coach Helen Smith said: "The response you get from the kids is great. They really put everything into it, and having two former world boxing champions make a surprise visit just adds to the occasion".

Cliff Perkins, who organised the event, said: "The event has taken a lot of time and effort, but it is all worthwhile when you see the enjoyment the kids get out of it. Luckily we were supported by referee Keith Howlett, who arranged the students from the Oasis Academy in Enfield. Keith's support and advice were invaluable. We would also like to thank John Murphy for bringing the two former world champions to Hendon and for his continued support for the Contender Am-Box programme".

Anyone wishing to deliver Contender Am-Box can contact the Police Club's office on 01276 489 776.