Rotary Club’s annual boxing gala raises £31k for Thanet charities

DONATION: Frank, Neal, Daisy, Les and Stuart

The 14th annual Boxing Gala, organised by Rotary Club of Thanet and Ramsgate Boxing Club, has raised £31,000 for local charities including Oasis Domestic Abuse Service, Pilgrims Hospices, Yoakley Homes and Shelter Box.

Over the past 14 years the event, hosted at Margate Winter Gardens, has raised £440,000 for local charities as well as contributing towards the expansion of Ramsgate Boxing Club, a haven for many young people.

Neal Elliott, along with local businessman Frank Thorley and Ramsgate Boxing Club Chairman Les Ray, has been involved since the first Boxing Gala in 2006.

He said: “It has been a privilege to work with Frank, Les and my fellow Rotarians for so many years on an event that has raised so much money for charities that are local to Thanet and, in so many different ways, make such a different to those in need.

“Although the 2019 Boxing Gala was the final event of its kind, I am proud that its legacy will live on in the work of the charities we have supported. “

Speaking on behalf of Oasis Domestic Abuse Service, Daisy Fordham said: “We are incredibly grateful for the continuous support of this wonderful event that has made a huge difference to the lives of so many people in need.”