NEWPORT boxing trainer Steve Sims has been recognised in the 2014 Newport Volunteer Achievement Awards.

Sims, who runs the Alway Amateur Boxing Club on Lliswerry Road in the city, received his award in recognition of his “outstanding contribution to volunteering in Newport,” according to the citation.

The NVAA winners will be presented with their prizes in a special ceremony at Rodney Parade on Wednesday, October 29.

Jane Shatford, senior development officer at the Gwent Association of Volunteer Organisations, says the awards are a way to recognise those who make the city a better place.

“The awards have been going for eight years now and we’re going from strength to strength,” she said.

“We’ve got many more sponsors on board this year and Rodney Parade are hosting the ceremony in the Bisley Suite there.

“It’s a way to say thank you very much to everyone who works tirelessly and selflessly in the community and the ceremony will be attended by the mayor and Jess Morden, MP for Newport East.

“Jess says she loves coming to the awards every year.

“It’s like a big hug and it’s always such a great night.

“Everyone nominated is given a certificate of recognition and the winners and runners-up in each category will be invited to the presentation evening.

“We know Steve very well,” she added.

“He has had a tough few months and this is recognition of all the hard work he puts in with the youngsters in Alway.”

Sims, whose wife Debs died earlier this year, runs boxing and fitness classes for youngsters and adults at his gym and charges only £1.50 per session to cover costs.

He says the recognition is an honour.

“It’s very nice to receive this certificate to acknowledge all the work I do at the gym,” said the former British featherweight champion.

Sims is also the subject of a documentary by local filmmaker Ciaran Gibbons, which it is hoped will be shown on Channel 4.

“It’s a great film about my life as a boxer, trainer and promoter and it’s very funny,” he added.

“Hopefully the volunteer award and the film can highlight the good work we’re doing at the gym.”