OLDHAM Boxing and Personal Development Centre have rounded up an international award.

Representatives of the Greaves Street club recently collected a Passion For Boxing Award, presented by the European Boxing Union Confederation.

OBPDC were also runners-up in the anti-crime initiative category for their outreach work and were shortlisted in the General Inclusion category.

Director Eric Noi said the Passion for Boxing Awards are a new and exciting opportunity for grassroots boxing projects to showcase the fantastic work they are doing and to be recognised for their achievements and contribution to society.

And he added that the club’s good work in it’s home town is set to continue - by doing its bit to fight homelessness.

Staff are looking to open up the gym and give access to those who do not have a roof over their heads.

In conjunction with Oldham Street Angels the gym staff are aiming to provide training and accredited courses to those who may not be able to ordinarily access the provision.

Eric said: ‘We’re happy to finally get our hands on the award as unfortunately we couldn’t attend the ceremony as it was held in Holland.

"It’s good that the work we have done, and continue to do, to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour has been recognised.

"OBPDC is much more than just a boxing club. We aim to bring together people from across the community and knock down any perceived barriers.

"That’s why we are looking to open up the centre to the homeless. Every day you read and see stories about the homeless crisis. We want to do our bit to help the people who find themselves in this situation.

"If you’ve not got an address you can’t access lots of courses and proper support. By running courses we can hopefully help people get back on their feet."