The event for Charlie Malarkey’s New Earswick Boxing (KO) for Kindness took place on Sunday (May 31) at New Earswick Sports Club in White Rose Avenue as the build for the centre – which aims to get people off the streets and gives them additional purpose through sports and other activities – moves closer to completion.
Locals who queued for burgers and hotdogs were treated to music from four local bands promoted by Emerging Talent – a company which provides opportunities for up-and-coming bands with PA and equipment support.
The free barbeque saw large crowds entertained and gave a stage for Charley to share the ideas for the hub with the community (Image: Kevin Glenton)
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And budding pugilists got involved in sparring sessions put on by local coach Chris Copey, from TSM boxing club in Boroughbridge Road.
The York Salvation Army service manager paid tribute to local businesses in helping to get the construction project off the ground, boosted by the news of a £5,000 contribution from York-based Simon Baynes Wholesale fruit and vegetables, and a further £1,000 from Pavers, and £750 from York Rotary Club.
The awareness raising afternoon was also boosted by a further £6,750 from local business and groups (Image: Kevin Glenton)
Contributions have also been received from the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire’s Community Buildings Programme and from the Police Community Fund.
Charlie Malarkey said: “Today has been all about recognising the community and getting them together in one place to address anti-social behaviour.
“By opening this gym we hope we can do that indirectly, and if people in the community have transferrable skills they can help out.
“It’s just for the whole community, kids and adults, that are stuck for something to do.
“They go to gyms but there are not part of a community.
“We don’t just say ‘good session and goodbye’, we address additional needs too.
“We appraise things in a different way and that extends to how they pay for the services.
“It’s all about helping the community, and the police are here today to support our aims and Councillor Pavlovic has shown his support too.
“People all day have been coming up to me and saying they can’t wait for it to open, they’re all looking forward to getting started.”
Ollie Maskell, police community support officer for York Neighbourhood said: “This gym will be amazing.
“I am in the village six days a week and I think it will be massive for the wider community.
“I think when it comes to anti-social behaviour, kids are bored, they have got nothing to do.
“I think it will be a safe space for them and will help them unwind and let off some stress.
“It’s a win-win.”
PCSO Ollie Maskell said the idea behind the hub is amazing for the village (Image: Kevin Glenton)
Councillor Michael Pavlovic, City of York Council executive member for safer communities said: “This is a community of businesses involved that are committed to making change for not just the most vulnerable, but those who are at risk of getting involved in anti-social behaviour.
“Activities and sport can be an outlet and Charlie’s other gym in the town centre has been instrumental in helping many people find focus in their lives and come off the streets.
“We want to send kids from all over the city to try out the sports.”