Alfreton kickboxing club, Rok-Ard are hosting a fundraiser this May with the hopes of encouraging more teenagers to join the club and find a purpose, rather than falling into possible anti-social habits.

The Rok-Ard club was originally set up in 2001, and is open to all ages and skill sets, but needs funding to put more provisions in place for teens, to keep them off the streets and out of possible organised crime by providing a safe and nurturing environment.

The ’50/50′ fundraiser will take place on Sunday, May 19, between 8am and 8pm at The Post Mill Centre in South Normanton.

Fifty per cent of monies raised from the fundraiser will go to Rok-Ard Kickboxing to pay for a year’s hall hire so that they can put on another weeknight class. The other 50 per cent will go to the charity SNaP Youth.

Georgina Brown, the current leader of the group, highlights how crucial a group like Rok-Ard is for the community.

She said: “Earlier this year, two of our volunteer coaches attended a seminar on organised crime and youth violence. There were some really eye-opening conversations, but it boils down to the fact that there’s simply not enough for teens to do.

“We offer vulnerable teens something to do with their time, and allow them to have a sense of belonging whilst learning kickboxing and gaining transferable skills.”

The fundraising event in May will also include a tombola and raffle, as well as the chance to trial a free kickboxing session; all whilst being entertained by 12 hours of non-stop sparring by their talented kickboxers.

Currently, membership to the club is priced between £4 for children and £6 for adults.

The fundraiser also has a JustGiving page, where they are hoping to raise the £1,250 needed. To donate, go to here

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