A CLUB which has boxed clever to keep youths off the streets and out of trouble has been awarded £750. North Herts Amateur Boxing Club, based at Station Approach, Hitchin, was given the prize at the High Sheriff s award ceremony at Hertford s County Hall

A CLUB which has boxed clever to keep youths off the streets and out of trouble has been awarded £750.

North Herts Amateur Boxing Club, based at Station Approach, Hitchin, was given the prize at the High Sheriff's award ceremony at Hertford's County Hall after finishing second in the sheriff's Crimebeat Awards.

The awards are part of a scheme co-ordinated by the Hertfordshire Community Foundation to give recognition to youth projects which have had an impact on crime reduction and community safety.

The club offers young pugilists the chance to learn a variety of skills including training and self-discipline, especially with regards to controlling their temper and aggression.

Wayne Armstrong, 40, who runs the club, was presented with the gift and a certificate by David McMullen, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire.

Mr Armstrong, who attended the event with club secretary Andy Sharp and Andy's son Elliott, said: "We were quite surprised to get shortlisted to the last six and even more delighted to finish second.

"We couldn't have done it without the help of the Jackmans Community Centre and the committee members who supported us when we first started. The council have also been a big help."

Mr Armstrong also said the club is looking for sponsors and is hosting an open evening for businesses on May 5. He can be contacted on 07919 186529.

Others who were given non-financial awards for their exceptional service to the community at the ceremony included:

* Maggie Hackney, of Hitchin, who set up a volunteer team called First Responder Group who attend emergency calls received by the ambulance service and provide care and life support until the ambulance arrives.

* Sandra Cannon of Baldock who set up Headway North Hertfordshire and Stevenage.

* Grace Drackford of Stevenage, the former chairman at Age Concern in Stevenage who also helped set up Shopmobility.

* Brenda Marriott had done an excellent job in developing the the pre-school nursery based at the Stevenage division of St John Ambulance.

* Norma Barratt and David Clarke, who attended the event on behalf of all volunteers at the Lister Hospital Voluntary Car Service. The service provides welcome comfort to patients who are often extremely anxious on their journeys to and from hospitals.