A BOXING club has been praised for the impact it has had on an East End community just weeks after officially opening.

Bluevale Boxing Club began training the community of Dennistoun in November - and since then it's popularity has grown.

The brainchild of Kenny Trainer and Dylan McKenzie, the club delivers classes for under 10s, 11 to 15-year-olds, ladies and adults on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights.

With a growing waiting list, demand for the club is so high that Bluevale hopes to offer even more classes in the new year. 

And part of the reason for its popularity is the fact the not-for-profit club has an honesty box.

Children under 16 who can afford to pay can give £1 for a class while others can attend even if they don't have money.

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Kenny, who grew up in the area, said: "I knew the demand would be high because I knew the community needed a boxing club.

"We want to get more kids competing eventually and I would love to get a Boxing Scotland novice champion."

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The work being done by the club has been recognised in the community.

Councillor Allan Casey said: "I have been extremely impressed with the work of the Bluevale Boxing club, set up by a small group of local volunteers who wanted to give something back to their local community only a few months ago. 

"In that short space of time they have really engaged with the local area utilising a community facility and realising its potential.”

He added: “They are already working with over 40 local youths and have a waiting list for even more, in an area which has been poorly served with local clubs in the past.

"This really is an exciting project and I look forward to working alongside the club and watching it flourish in the future.“

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Following its initial success, the club has also received support from Boxing Scotland who is helping them through an affiliation process. 

Paul Coleman, West Region Boxing Club Development Officer: “We have been working with the club for the past four to six months, supporting them through the affiliation process. 

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"Club affiliation ensures good governance within clubs, including child protection and ensures that they are well run and provide a safe environment for people of all ages and abilities. 

"Both of the lads have been the drivers behind that, they have such a passion for what they are doing and are determined to achieve something and give back to their local area.

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"We have different levels of affiliation and they are coming in at Bronze Standard but, to be honest, are already very close to Silver. 

"They understand that boxing can be a positive force for social change in communities and already seeing results at the club.”

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Classes began at 4 pm in Bluevale Community Centre and for more information on the club find them on Facebook.