Superbox welcomes MP, councillors and police commissioner

Superbox welcomed the public to its new home at Rudheath Leisure Centre.

Among those to pay a visit was Cllr Sam Naylor, who is excited about the benefits the club could have for the wider community.

He said: “I’ve been working with Superbox for around three years now to help them establish a permanent home.

“It’s taken a long time but we’ve finally got them one and it’s a fantastic facility, there’s no doubt about that.

"It’s all brand spanking new with all the top equipment! It’s a great setup they’ve got.”

Cllr Sam Naylor was made an honorary member (Image: Supplied)

Cllr Naylor, who was made an honorary member, added: “Boxing isn’t the spit-and-sawdust it used to be, it’s now a really sophisticated pastime for kids to follow. The sport has come on leaps and bounds.

“It keeps them fit, keeps them energised and teaches them self-discipline.

“The Bunbys (who founded the club) know full well that if you can get some of these young lads off the streets and into disciplined activities, like they provide at Superbox, it can turn them around and open a lot of doors for them.”

Thomas Bunby and his nephew Steven Bunby launched Superbox in 2021, initially based at Supergym in Winnington.

With the club now boasting around 50 members, and with upwards of 20 youngsters attending their weekly kid’s sessions, the time had come to find a permanent base of operations.

On July 1 this year, Superbox officially moved into its new home at Rudheath Leisure Centre.

“We had been searching for a while, we couldn’t take any more members on where we were because we were too small,” said Thomas, 59.

“It’s a lot better. We’ve got a ring, we’ve got about 15 bags. It’s just better all around, it’s great to have our own space.”

The open day at Superbox (Image: Supplied)

Saturday’s (September 7) open day saw MP Andrew Cooper, police and crime commissioner Dan Price and town mayor Kate Cernik check out the new facility.

The club also received £635 in donations.

Cllr Cernik said: "Best of luck to Superbox in their new home.

"It was great to see such passion and dedication amongst the team who are so committed to providing an amazing opportunity for our children and young people."

“All in all, a very successful day,” added Thomas.

“Boxing is great for fitness and mental health, I know that myself as I have struggled with my mental health.

“It’s brilliant for mental health, as are most sports. Any exercise is good for your wellbeing.”

Vale Royal Lions, councillors, Andrew Cooper MP and the PCC Dan Price were all in attendance (Image: Supplied)

Thomas and Steven are supported at Superbox by their team of coaches - Mike Dempsey, Lee Frazer, Jimmy Evans, Alex Warburton, Pete Riding and Wayne O'Sullivan.

Some of the club’s members will be showcasing their skills when Superbox hosts its second-ever home show, at Winnington Park Rugby Club, on October 18.