A Doncaster boxing club, which helps young people around Adwick, Bentley and beyond, has been saved from the brink of closure – thanks to the support of a significant local business donation.

Edward Hardy (National Youth Belt Holder), Ray Curry (Operations Director, SYNETIQ), John Loosemore (Head Coach & Founder, Highfields ABC)

Since being established in 2001, the amateur club has trained people of all ages and skill levels, becoming a vital resource in the area. As well as taking boxers to English National Levels, the club has become a pillar of the community – aiding the mental health of young people and encouraging the importance of discipline and other life skills.

After a series of national lockdowns left the club on the ropes, coach John Loosemore launched an appeal in the local area.

“Since we started Highfields ABC over 20 years ago, we’ve always managed to generate our own income through memberships, shows and school visits. This is the first time we’ve ever had to launch an appeal like this, which shows how desperate we were.”

“We set ourselves a target of £2,500 – the amount needed to keep us afloat for the next six months – and hoped we could count on some local support.”

Thanks to a significant £2000 donation by SYNETIQ – the UK’s leading integrated vehicle salvage and recycling company based on Bentley Moor Lane – Highfields ABC has surpassed that target, and is now ready to take on 2021.

SYNETIQ’s donation will go towards the training and certification required by the ABA Governing body, such as First Aid and Child Safety, as well as COVID-19 safety measures.

“I really appreciate what SYNETIQ has done,” said John. “We’ve helped hundreds of kids over the years in Doncaster and the surrounding areas, and I’m pleased we can continue to do so. We’d like to thank everyone who has supported Highfields ABC.”