A new boxing club in Tenby hopes that it can teach people about the sport as well as help them get fit along the way.

Tenby Sharks Boxing has been running now for the past four months, and with nearly 70 members on its books already, it’s clear to see that the town itself has missed having a boxing club situated within its walls.

The club has grown organically from a passion to teach people, of whatever age, male or female, how to box whilst getting fit along the journey.

Head coach Mark Davies explained: “We are predominantly a boxing club but that doesn’t mean that everyone that comes along wants to box.

“Many people come along for the fitness side of things and as a bi-product find that by participating their stress levels decrease, their confidence increases and they generally feel better in themselves for being a part of such a close knit group,” continued Mark, who said that the club has been many years in the making.

Mark is the first to admit that it’s been a ‘bumpy road’ in his personal life, with no shortage of getting in to trouble along the way, but it is that path that has inevitably led to Tenby once again having a boxing club back in the town.

After months of searching for a suitable venue in such a small town it was a chance meeting that led to the boxing club now being located in Tenby’s De Valence Pavilion.

With the backing of the DeValence Trust it enabled locals to rally around the local businesses to gain further support and funding to start the club.

“Tenby really got behind what we were trying to achieve in fairness, and we raised approximately £4,600 through donations from local businesses and a fund raising evening of music we held in the ‘dog’s home’ (ex-servicemens club).

“We also had a ring bought for us by Neil Birtles from Aztec Glass, without which there would have been no boxing club, so we are eternally grateful for that,” continued Mark.

Next up is a charity white collar event the club are looking to put on in Tenby at the beginning of December to raise money for a charity that many people hold close to their hearts - The Macmillan Support Trust.

For those of you who have never heard of white collar boxing here’s a quick breakdown.

Participants train to box for approximately 10-12 weeks. Participants usually have no, or very little boxing experience an often come from all walks of life to get involved.

After the training period they are matched by weight and experience to compete in a one off bout, wearing headguard’s and 16oz gloves, at a black tie event being held in Tenby.

The club are still looking to get people involved, and anyone interested can contact Mark through the club’s Facebook page: Tenby Sharks Boxing Club.

Training at the club in Tenby takes place Mondays and Wednesday, from 5.30 to 6.30 pm for juniors, and 6.30 to 8 pm for seniors (who also train on a Friday from 7 to 8 pm).

The club is also starting a women only class on a Tuesday from 6.30 to 7.30 pm as of this week.

It costs £2 per session for juniors with a £5 membership fee on your second session; and £3 per session for seniors with a £10 membership fee on the second session. Women’s classes will just be £3 per session.