Schoolchildren worked closely with police officers during a non-contact boxing course in Bradford.

A group of Thornton children completed the course, which was run by the North Bradford Neighbourhood Policing Team in response to a perceived lack of youth activities in the area.

The youngsters, aged eight to 15, were taught fitness, sparring and self-defence techniques by PCSOs Tony Hooson and Richard Eastwood as part of the ten-week ‘Police Contender’ course.

The training also included dietary advice and education around issues such as bullying and anti-social behaviour.

The Council-funded course took place at a boxing club set up by PCSO Tracy Beasley.

The 16 children received a certificate and a medal kindly donated by Margaret Allan, whose late husband Alec ‘Pop’ Allan was a stalwart of Bradford’s boxing scene.