BOXERS at a Dorchester club are calling for more sponsors and helpers to weigh in.

Dorchester Amateur Boxing Club started in October last year in the Scout hut at Little Britain in the county town.

But it proved so popular with youngsters that they soon outgrew the hut and had to relocate to the former brewery site.

Now the club is appealing for more adult helpers to serve on the management committee and more local companies to come forward and offer financial backing.

Keith Mullen, who is temporary chairman of the club, said with as many as 16 lads training at the club twice a week they were in desperate need of more help.

He said: "We received a grant from Sport For All and Dorchester Round Table but we still need equipment and a sponsor for the lads' kit.

"It's an up and coming club, but it needs a lot of help. We need support from local businesses and more people to come and work on the management committee."

Mr Mullen said boxing was a good way for young boys to channel their energies.

He said: "It teaches them fitness, discipline, about the need to look after their bodies and not to abuse the substances that are around. A lot of people have the wrong idea about amateur boxing.

"It's not about getting in a ring and knocking the stuffing out of one another, it's all about skill and scoring points. What you see on the TV is very different.

"At the amateur level the medical aspects are very stringent - fighters have to see a doctor and have a full medical every time they participate."

Mr Mullen, 63, has been involved in amateur boxing on and off for 50 years and says he is confident in the safety of his sport.

He said: "I boxed for a long time, my son boxes and my grandson boxes. I would encourage any youngster to get involved. It's one of the safest sports there is - much safer than football."

The club has the backing of Dorchester Police community support officer Nick Bourne, who says it is a great facility for young people in the town.

He said: "From a community policing point of view we see a lot of youngsters who can go there and take their aggression out on the equipment, which is a good thing for Dorchester."

Anyone who is able to offer help or support to the club should call Keith Mullen on 01300 320718.