An award-winning Ludlow policeman is delivering a knock-out blow to anti-social behaviour in the town.

Constable Tony Sewell has launched a new boxing club at the Wheeler Road Guide Hut in a bid to rid the town’s streets of trouble.

The officer has already launched similar clubs for local football players, which helped to reduce the town’s crime rate.

Today his efforts were praised by Ludlow’s former deputy mayor, Terry Burgoyne, who urged youngsters to sign up.

Mr Burgoyne said: “There are lots of young people in Ludlow who need an outlet and this will help them stay out of trouble.

“Tony Sewell worked very hard on a scheme to coach football to the town’s youngsters. It helped them to stay on the straight and narrow. This new boxing club will have a similar effect.”

Mr Sewell said the club will meet regularly from next Wednesday. It is hoped plenty of locals would support the club.

He added the club would hopefully lead to a reduction in crime rates and fewer ASBOs in the town because it would provide a meeting place for people who might otherwise end up in trouble.

He said: “The club is for everyone in Ludlow.”

Constable Tony Sewell received the Meynell Trophy, donated by former High Sheriff of Shropshire, Hugh Meynell, for organising a football club.