A MAN who set up a boxing club has been recognised for his work in helping to divert young people away from anti-social behaviour.

Martin Lewis, who runs Bertie’s Caldicot Amateur Boxing Club (ABC) in Sudbrook, has received a Citizen's Award from Caldicot Town Council.

Mr Lewis said the gym, set up in January, has helped hundreds of young people and is making a positive impact in the community.

"The gym was set up to provide for the community and especially to help kids off the streets and divert them from anti-social behaviour," said Mr Lewis, 35, of Longfellow Place, Caldicot.

"When I was a child I had nothing to do and when I found a boxing gym it changed my life. I want to help others who are less fortunate to have that same opportunity."

Caldicot town Cllr Joel Williams, a former boxer himself, nominated Mr Lewis for the award in recognition of the impact of the gym.

Mr Lewis also hopes to encourage people with disabilities to join. A s a trainer, he has helped motorbike crash survivor , Gareth Hughes, in his bid to walk again.