HARWICH Boxing Club are preparing for their first competitive action of 2017.

Their boxers are taking part in a sell-out dinner show at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, in Colchester, on Saturday.

Topping the bill is Pat Allen Cripps, who is boxing over three three-minute rounds against Milton Keynes Victors ABC puncher John Cawley.

Allen-Cripps, 19, has recently been rated number five light heavyweight in England and number eight in the UK, which has significantly boosted his confidence going into this contest.

Reigning Eastern Counties schoolboy champion Stevie Martin, 15, tops the junior card and faces a stern challenge from the experienced Jack Wiffen, from Sudbury ABC.

The Dovercourt-based club, entering its 20th year since opening, are also celebrating two recent successful grant awards.

The club gained £1,290 from Tendring District Council's Big Society Fund and £500 from the grassroots funding stream. The money will help purchase new gloves and boxing equipment.