Portland Amateur Boxing Club are appealing for a local company to come forward and sponsor their vests for the forthcoming season.

The islanders, renowned for nurturing homegrown talent, are without financial backing and time is running out with less than two months to go before the start of the new campaign.

Portland have produced no fewer than five Western Counties champions in the last couple of years alone and hope to increase that number further this year.

Former national junior semi-finalist Aaron Thomas and his brother Ryan have signed and, along with George Carter and Sam King, the potential at the club is extremely strong.

Club secretary Vince Ealson said: “We had hoped a local company would have taken up the offer already and we were disappointed that two pulled out.

“What with the current financial situation, I can understand that money is tight, but this is a good way for a local firm to advertise their company.

“We are using kit that is nearly five years old and beginning to look tired. We put a lot of free time into the club and it provides a great way of keeping fit and a safe place for youngsters to spend time.

“If any firm would like to sponsor us then please don’t hesitate to pop into the club or contact me on 07732 220362 for more details.”