Arson-hit Shrewsbury boxing club still without a base
A Shrewsbury boxing club is still homeless – more than five weeks after its headquarters was destroyed by fire.
Bosses of Shrewsbury Amateur Boxing Club said today they were still in limbo after Shropshire Council was unsuccessful in finding a temporary home for their 250 members to train. Council officials said they were still trying to help the boxing club find a home.
Up to £15,000 of damage was caused to the John Davies Boxing Centre in Smithfield Road on September 16 when arsonists set it ablaze.
Graham Robb, a spokesman for the club, said: "The council told us that there was no building in the town to rehome us whatsoever and they were going to have a further meeting to discuss what will happen to our old Smithfield Road site.
"To be told after almost six weeks that they have absolutely nothing to offer us is pretty devastating and we are still none the wiser after all this time. It feels as if we are still in limbo.
"We still have children and parents ringing up asking what is happening so to be told this news is gutting and we are now starting to lose members and people are losing interest."
He praised Gary Owen, landlord of the Britannia Inn in Castle Foregate, for holding small sessions at his premises for two evenings a week as the club waited to hear about its future.
"If it hadn't have been for Gary this club would have closed completely six weeks ago so we are very grateful," said Mr Robb.
Tim Smith, group manager for facilities management at Shropshire Council, said: "Shropshire Council is working to help the boxing club find new premises to train in. We expect to discuss options with the boxing club within the next few days."
A fundraising evening will be held on December 1 at the Lord Hill Hotel in Shrewsbury with Liverpool legend Neil Ruddock and British heavyweight champion boxer David Price set to headline.
Only five tables remain available for the night, which will see a raft of sports memorabilia auctioned off .
A comedian will provide further entertainment and tickets are priced at £55. For tickets call 07940 585341.
See also:
Shrewsbury boxing club floored by £15,000 arson attack
Shrewsbury Amateur Boxing Club dealt a knock out blow
