A boxing scheme for children is desperately seeking funding.

Multi-award-winning youth initiative Box Cleva needs money to keep running through to 2015.

After starting in Borehamwood, the scheme spread countywide, with groups in Cheshunt, North Watford, Letchworth, Stevenage, South Oxhey, St Albans and Hitchin, as well as plans for a Box Cleva Aylesbury next year.

Run by firefighter Bob Williams, the Borehamwood scheme has run every Tuesday during school term since 2011 and has taken hundreds of Hertsmere children off the streets, teaching them discipline, respect, fitness, healthy living and weight loss.

Patron John Conteh said: “This was one of the best, most structured and effective schemes I’ve ever seen, using some of the best amateur boxing trainers in the country. It would be tragic if these schemes finished due to lack of funding.”

Mr Williams added: “I’m so proud to be associated with Box Cleva and the hundreds of children that work hard to achieve standards in life, through sport.

“Thank you to Hertsmere partnership agencies, as this really is where it started’.

To help raise money for the scheme, contact the group on info@boxcleva.net