THE winding up of Cardenden Boxing Club saw community organisations benefit to the tune of £13,000.

The club held a final event, at the Queen’s Hotel, Bowhill, when eight groups were given cheques.

These were: Bowhill Highland Games Committee; The John Thomson Children’s Football Tournament; Cardenden Village Fair Committee; Cardenden Santa Sleigh Group; The Senior Citizens Group; along with the village’s three primary schools: St Ninian’s, Denend and Cardenden.

Boxing Club President George McIntyre; secretary, Bill Burns, and treasurer, Sharon Abercrombie, were part of the attendance in the packed hall.

Bill Burns reflected to the audience that the club had been a huge part of his life as a boxer, then referee, judge and team manager, and he added: “Over many decades Cardenden Boxing Club was a big part of life in the Auchterderran, Bowhill, Cardenden and Dundonald community, and I personally was lucky to be part of it.

“It saw me able to enjoy helping young people learn the noble art and at the same time go to different parts of the world through the sport.

“Unfortunately the time has come to close the club, but we are delighted that community groups can benefit from the funds remaining.”

Many ex-boxers were at the evening event and they enjoyed entertainment from talented entertainer, Kenny Smith.