Families launch online fundraiser after Sunderland boxing gym struck by fire on Easter Sunday

Two fire crews were called to the Sunderland East End ABC in Robinson Terrace, Hendon, shortly after 6.45pm on Easter Sunday – April 12.

A spokeswoman for Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that an investigation into the blaze is ongoing, in conjunction with Northumbria Police.

The whole first floor of the building suffered smoke damage, while the rear door of the building was destroyed in the fire.

The attached flat was also damaged by smoke, but no-one was hurt.

In the aftermath of the blaze, which came at the end of the third week of the coronavirus lockdown, families launched an online fundraiser to help restore the gym’s facilities.

Dave Robson, who runs the club alongside Robert New and acts as club secretary, thanked the community for its support – and called for anyone who can help with labour or materials to get in touch.

He said: “We were absolutely gutted. We put a lot of time and effort into this gym and it takes up a lot of our lives.

“This won’t stop us. We will have this all sorted out.”

The gym, usually open five nights a week, is run entirely by volunteers and provides a place to train for children across the city.

Since the fire, Dave, Rob and the team have been inundated with calls offering to help with cleaning and painting at the gym, when it is safe to do so.

Volunteers are also looking to get a new secure steel door for the back of the building, to replace the fire door which was destroyed in the blaze.

Dave added: “It’s been overwhelming – people offering to help. It makes you realise how much you are appreciated.”

The GoFundMe page set up in the wake of the fire said: “All of the young people who do attend the boxing gym are devastated by what has happened, and all want to to their little bit to help.

“Let’s all pull together as a community, and dig deep to help out our local boxing gym.”

To donate to the GoFundMe appeal, click here.