MP Clegg met up with SBC trainer Glyn Rhodes to hear details of how boxers were going into local schools to dispense advice and support.

Clegg said: "Glyn Rhodes' work with young people at the Sheffield Boxing Centre was brought to my attention by one of my constituents, and I am delighted to add my support to his efforts.

"His campaign to use boxing to combat bullying among children from some of the most deprived areas of the city is an excellent initiative."

The politician became involved through Sheffield resident and SBC member John McCormack who said: "I saw him back in January when he helped me with a government grant for the Boxing Centre.

"I liked him so I went back to see him in May to ask if he'd support our campaign."

Clegg's backing follows a similar statement by ex-Sports Minister Richard Caborn, president of the Amateur Boxing Association.

Our schools-visit programme has been backed by some of boxing's biggest names, including Joe Calzaghe, Junior Witter, Brendan Ingle, Brian Anderson and Richie Woodhall.

Today SBC boxer Ross Burkinshaw said the campaign was helping turn lives round.

The Deepcar fighter said: "The best ideas are always the simplest. We tell the kids that bullying isn't cool. Or big.

"If they are being bullied, we tell them where they can get help to sort it out.

"I know from the way some youngsters react that we are having an effect. There isn't a boxer in our gym who hasn't enjoyed spreading the message."

What do you think? Post your comments below.

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