BRAVE Clacks amateurs are being sought to take up boxing for the first time and raise money for the UK's biggest cancer charity.

People looking to get fit after lockdown are being encouraged to join in with Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB) and show how far they can progress at a fight night in Alloa later this year.

Eight weeks of free training will be available at Tullibody to participants with guidance from experienced coaches at the town's Scottish Martial Arts Centre (SMAC).

Following the boot camp, amateur boxers will take part in a bout in front of a crowd of friends, family and colleagues at an Alloa Town Hall event on November 27.

Participants will be raising funds for Cancer Research UK in the process, securing sponsorship and selling tickets to their event.

Adam Paterson, manager at SMAC in Tullibody, said: "These events have been amazing for individuals who are looking to take up boxing but have been nervous about trying it out.

"This way everyone starts at the same time and go on to make great friends with everyone connected to the event.

"Many continue to box after their experience.

"Whether they choose to continue their training with us or one of the fantastic local boxing clubs in the area, it's just great to see people getting involved in the sport at any age."

Gym training starts on the week commencing October 4 and the initiative is open to anyone aged 18 or over, with the eldest person ever to take part so far aged 70.

For the three-round bout at Alloa Town Hall, competitors will be matched in their training group with boxers of similar ability.

UWCB the organisation behind the event, already has an impressive record in the Wee County, having raised £148,592 for the good cause through its previous Alloa events.

Jon Leonard, head of UWCB, said: "For many, it is a life-changing experience as they report being fitter than at any other time in their life, eating more healthily and losing weight."

Jon's organisation has faced a challenging year with restrictions and this has unfortunately hampered the charity effort.

He added: "All our fundraising efforts are down to the incredible people who take part and put in eight weeks of hard work to achieve their goal.

"I would say to anyone in Clackmannanshire area thinking of taking part to give it a go – it is an excellent opportunity to take up a new challenge after the end of lockdown.

"Everyone is welcome. The bonds which are formed amongst our competitors are incredible with many people who would never have met in everyday life forming lifelong friendships."

Both training and the fight night will be Covid-19 safe in line with guidelines.

To sign up, visit ultrawhitecollarboxing.co.uk/locations/alloa