HONOR Oak Boxing Club members have paid tribute to coach Tom Ascott and plan to bring the club back to its former glory.

The club, in Elm Lane, is being brought back fighting to a boxing status the founder can be proud of.

Tom Ascott started the club in 1983 to help reform the lives of young people and keep them out of trouble.

Sadly, he passed away on March 8, aged 68, after a three month illness that rocked the whole club, whose members form a close family.

Over the last few years staff movement, competition from other clubs and a location change has affected their reputation.

The club is now once again affiliated with the Amateur Boxing Association, have installed new equipment and are introducing a female only class.

Head coach Derek Long, of Dalrymple Road, said: "15 years ago this was one of the biggest clubs in the South East. We’re getting bigger now."

Current members are now using Twitter and Facebook to bring new members into the fold and encourage people to get training.

With the re-birth of this club set to be a big one, they are now looking for club sponsors. If you want to be involved contact Mr Long on 07930 193 195.

Derek, aged 48, added: "We once had the best boxers and we’re going to try and bring that back. We want the boys to compete before the end of the season."

The club train Monday to Friday 7-9pm, with junior classes at £2 on a Tuesday and Thursday