Ray Askew’s Invicta Gym have received a positive response after their plea for help.

The club are in urgent need of new premises following the decision to demolish their existing home at the Rushenden Gateway community centre.

Sheppey United Football Club and Minster Boxing Club have both offered to help following our story in the Times Guardian.

Mr Askew, who trains aspiring fighters including Dave Jones and Oliver Edwards, was delighted with the support offered.

He said: “I had an interesting conversation with Kevin Hake and Matt Smith at the football club.

“I mentioned that my finances are limited but that wasn’t the main thing they were interested in. They seem to be keen on regenerating sport on the Island and making their venue a sporting centre. They put forward some interesting ideas.”

The Minster Boxing Club, in Blue Town, have also offered the use of their facility, either permanently or short-term.

The Invicta Club have yet to receive a definite date for leaving their current home but expect to need new premises by August.