Washington Boxing Club founder honoured for 30 years' service to community

A stalwart boxing club founder who hung up his gloves has been thanked for more than 30 years’ of service with a fundraiser in his honour.
Founder of Washington Boxing Club, Terry DegnanFounder of Washington Boxing Club, Terry Degnan
Founder of Washington Boxing Club, Terry Degnan

Terry Degnan, 70, was one of the founders of Washington Boxing Club in 1988, using the club to help get young people off the streets, support victims of domestic abuse and become a hub for the Washington community.

During his time, Terry used the boxing club to offer support for a number of vulnerable people in the community and was even awarded a community hero award at Buckingham Palace, in 2011.

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Terry had to leave the club earlier this year to become a full time carer for his wife, but members of the club and community wanted to give him a special send off to thank him for everything he’s done.

Founder of Washington Boxing Club, Terry DegnanFounder of Washington Boxing Club, Terry Degnan
Founder of Washington Boxing Club, Terry Degnan

Julie Simpson, who joined the club in 1996 said: “Terry is the most devoted, caring and genuine guy you could ever meet. He’s been a father figure to many, including myself.

“Over the last 30 years he’s been helping others get back on the right track and helping people turn their lives around. Now we want to help him.”

To raise money for Terry, Julie and others in the community are selling tickets for a special raffle, with the top prize being a signed picture of Mike Tyson.

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For information on how to enter the draw and support Terry, visit the Washington Volunteers Facebook group.

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