A FUNDRAISING former boxer and community stalwart who volunteers his time to support school children in Dorset has been officially recognised for his tireless efforts.
Shaun Weeks has been awarded with a High Sheriff Award - and he was officially presented with the accolade by the High Sheriff of Dorset, Mr Michael Dooley, who visited the school he volunteers so much of his time to.
The award was presented to Mr Weeks during an assembly at Sturminster Newton High School for which he was recognised for his long-standing support of young people of Sturminster Newton and the surrounding villages.
A spokesperson for Sturminster Newton High School said: “Shaun is a huge asset to the young people of the area and despite having a family he donates significant proportions of his time to local young people in a number of ways.”
“In 2001 Shaun started up the boxing gym, it has since produced several National Champions and currently has one boxer on the England pathway.
“As a school we are very fortunate for Shaun to have supported the school in many ways; Shaun has worked to support, mentor and guide students and their families and encouraged young people into youth sports.
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“This has developed their confidence, trust and self-esteem which has in turn served to remove barriers within school and allowed them to be successful in their education.
“Most recently Shaun has been one of the community volunteers as part of our enrichment programme, where he runs an introduction to boxing for beginners at the gym during school time. This has led to several students becoming part of the main club as well as expanding the opportunities, expectations and horizons of a great deal more.
“In addition, Shaun has also sponsored a PSHE programme ‘The Fight Against Knife Crime’ aimed at our older students as part of the Sturminster Newton Boxing Club which is delivered during the PSHE lessons at school.
“Shaun has also supported the local community in many other ways, being a key member of Stalbridge Youth Football Club.
“He regularly fundraises for the organisations he is involved with and recently raised over £2,000 for Julia’s House by coming out of retirement himself and boxing two matches with local people.
“We are extremely fortunate in this community to have so many local people who are prepared to freely donate time and effort to the school and local projects for young people.
“We hope everyone joins us in congratulating Shaun on his award.”
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