A WHITCHURCH boxing club, which has been searching for a new home, is hosting a marathon fundraiser to help buy new equipment.

 will hold a marathon in a bid to raise funds for new equipment.

Elite Legionaries, The Fort Boxing Club members, will be running from Whitchurch to Ellesmere and back via the canal on Saturday, July 22.

It comes after the club secured a new home.

Earlier this year, the Whitchurch Herald reported how their plans to convert a business unit in the town were turned down by planning officers.

But the cost of securing a new venue has meant the club now needs additional funds to purchase equipment like new boxing gloves, head guards, skipping ropes, boxing bags, mirrors and fitness equipment.

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Coach, Daniel Bailey who runs the club said: "It feels amazing but unfortunately a lot of the funds have been used up to secure the building.

"It has left the gym without the extra funds to purchase any new kit and equipment.

"We thought it would be a great idea for us to be able to do a sponsored fundraising marathon down by the canal."

Daniel explained that members of different ages will be taking part in the run.

He said: "How it would work is that I would be running the full 26.2 miles from Whitchurch to Ellesmere and back.

"As we have mixed ages from six to 16 years of age, I have measured out different distance segments.

"There will be a two-mile sponsored run and people will be able to run five and seven miles.

"It will match their ability and ages.

"We will all be running as a team.

"I will be supporting and encouraging them to hit their goals."

Daniel mentioned that he has received support from people in the town.

He said: "We put up a GoFundMe page.

"Our target goal is £5,000 and we have received £1,451 in it as it stands.

"It has come from people interested in taking up the sport and from other people who think we are doing something good."

Former soldier, Daniel became head boxing coach in his battalion and turned an empty building into a boxing facility when he was based in Northern Ireland.

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Daniel thanked people for the support which has been given to him and the club.

He said: "I'd just like to say thanks to the community who have helped so far.

"If it wasn't for the community wanting this to happen, this vision would not be able to become reality."

You can donate to the GoFundMe via www.gofundme.com/f/the-fort-boxing-club-marathon