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Boxing star punches out support for school’s brand new charity
Sanderson High School packed a punch when star guest Frank Bruno delivered a knockout speech to launch a new charity.
The boxing legend was joined by one of the town’s Miss Scotland hopefuls, Zoe Balfour, who handed over a cheque for £3000 to the Friends of Sanderson, which aims to offer fresh opportunities to youngsters with additional support needs and their families.
Excited pupils quizzed former heavyweight champ Bruno on his career during a special assembly.
Bruno said afterwards: “East Kilbride is a tight community and the more people that support the charity, the better – I am honoured to be here.”
Boxing sensation Frank Bruno delivered a knockout speech in support of an East Kilbride charity.
Bruno attended an event at the town’s Sanderson High School last Wednesday to show his support and to urge folk to contribute to the Friends of Sanderson charity.
The 56-year-old former world heavyweight champion was accompanied by Miss Scotland 2018 finalist Zoe Balfour, whose family are close friends of Bruno.
And the ring legend, who is one of the charity’s patrons, said: “East Kilbride is a tight community and the more people that support the charity, the better.”
The Friends of Sanderson aim to improve opportunities for young people with additional support needs and promote the advancement of their education.
Bruno was warmly welcomed by pupils and teachers.
Students were eager to ask him questions about his experiences, his boxing career and some asked for advice and boxing tips.
Bruno’s speech, in which he stressed the importance of hard work and effort to achieve an aim, was very well received by those in attendance.
The fans’ favourite emphasised his gratitude to be able to attend the event and meet pupils.
He told the News: “I feel honoured to be here. It’s very important for me to give back and to set an example for the youngsters.
“I’ve been quite busy recently and I’m so glad that I have found the time to come to Scotland and show my support for Friends of Sanderson because its a very good cause.
“East Kilbride is a tight community and the more people that support the charity, the better.”
Miss Scotland hopeful Zoe has selected Friends of Sanderson as the charity she wants to support.
“It’s amazing to see the growth of the students and its so rewarding for me to be able play a part in helping to raise funds,” said the 20-year-old who is a Friends of Sanderson ambassador.
Reflecting on the day, Sanderson High head teacher Aisling Boyle said: “We are delighted to have a legend such as Frank Bruno as a Friend of Sanderson and patron of our charity.
“Our pupils asked him fantastic questions and he was an inspiration in how he interacted with them and the staff.
“Frank’s passion for promoting equity for people with additional needs was evident and welcomed by all at Sanderson.
“I am also very grateful to Zoe Balfour for choosing us as our charity, in her bid to become Miss Scotland.
“It was a memorable day for all and raises the profile of Friends of Sanderson and our school.”
Email Nicole.logie@tfs.direct for more information about the charity.