Braid boxers tackle fight against cancer

The event takes place at the club's base at Crebilly Road (7.45pm) and funds raised this year will be going to the Big Bus cancer screening unit, which will be at the club on Thursday, May 6, to screen for a full day.

Braid head coach John McLeister explains: “We hope the local community take advantage of this service, which is free and can provide extremely important health checks against cancer.

“We felt that by sponsoring this Big Bus project we could provide a service in more ways than one to the community. This is our way of giving back to the community their support, helping them and even saving lives.

“Our charity show featuring our mini boxers along with a few of our champion junior boxers is an excellent family event producing excellent entertainment and competitive sport and is a great opportunity for the local community in Ballymena to come along and see what we are all about.

“Our mini boxers are kids aged between 8-10 who are not yet the age to compete but are introduced to the basics and will provide excellent entertainment. Our junior boxers are aged up to 16 and will also be on display,” added John.

Tea and refreshments will be provided after the show, which will afford everyone an opportunity to make appointments for the Big Bus screening and to have a look around the boxing club and speak with coaches and boxers

Cost is 3 for adults and children under 11 go free if they're accompanied by an adult. Youth groups, church groups, scouts and BB troops will be made extremely welcome.

Meanwhile, the club's annual fund-raising show is set for April 27, at Leighinmohr House Hotel.

This show will feature a full Braid line up including 12 gold and silver medal winners this season within the club.

The show will also feature two 'blue-collar' charity bouts where a few local lads will put on a display of bravery and have a go for one night only in this noble art.

Tickets are on sale at 10 and can be obtained from John on 07751285998 or 07875939654.