IMPROVING lives through violent competition may seem counter-intuitive, but boxing coach Wayne Johnson knows it can happen.

"I am the person I am today because of boxing," he said. "I was a frustrated teenager who probably wasn't getting involved in the right things but everything changed for the better when I started to box.

"It taught me so many things; respect, discipline, dedication. Now I feel I have to put something back into it."

Mr Johnson opened Mole Valley Amateur Boxing Club, based on Ryebridge Close in North Leatherhead, late last year and it already has more than 50 members, most of them from the town.

The coach, who has lived in the area for almost 25 years, said: "There's a lot of criminal activity and kids hanging out on street corners in North Leatherhead, and when these kids don't think there is anything to do it's easy for them to fall into a bad lifestyle.

"Boxing can be a way out of that for them in the same way it was a way out for me. It's all about channelling that aggression and using it in the right way.

"These guys need something to focus on, to distract their minds. It's not just about punching a bag; you have to make weight, get extremely fit and prepare mentally. It's a whole process."

Mr Johnson, a roofing contractor by day, does not take a wage for the coaching, charging youngsters just £3 a session to cover rent and overheads.

"I do it out of love for the sport," he said. "I know it can change lives like it did for me. It teaches you self-control, respect for your coaches and for your opponent and that is so important in life."

The project has even caught the eye of the local authorities, leading to local PC Gaynor Grout presenting the club with a £500 grant from Surrey Police in December.

The money will be spent on a new 16ft ring and the car park, but Mr Johnson's ambitions do not stop there.

"There's a lot of talent coming through this place at the minute," he said. "We want the youngsters to maximise their talents, which means us as coaches being the best we can be.

"One day we can have a champion fighting out of this gym."

The club is open to various age groups. Call Mr Johnson on 07961 907891 for information or to sign up.