A NEW SPORTS ACADEMY for kids has received a welcome boost from Stevenston's Glencairn Gym in the form of £250.

Active Kids Academy used the money to buy a new boxing stand for one of their groups at Ardrossan Civic Centre.

Michael Hainey, director and owner of Active Kids Academy, told the Herald: “The stand has a heavy punch bag, which can be quite expensive, so to get that support for the boxing was brilliant. The children absolutely love it.”

The academy, which Michael founded in January this year, offers coaching to schools, clubs and communities throughout Ayrshire.

Michael said: “In the local area, especially across the Three Towns, we're the only ones who provide something like this. The key is we're building confidence and self esteem for children. It's aimed at children who wouldn't normally get the chance to go to sports matches.”

Dougie Rae of Glencairn Gym said: “We're looking to support Active Kids Academy on an ongoing basis."

Visit http://www.activekidsacademy.co.uk/ for info.