Croydon Central MP Gavin Barwell visited the Thai Boxing Community centre in Thornton Heath last week.

During the visit he met with a group of young people from the centre's Box Office programme, which aims to build stronger communities by reducing crime and anti-social behaviour among disadvantaged young people.

The programme, for 11 to 25 year-olds features sport, education, IT, Thai boxing, social networking and developing employment skills and is led by Jonathan More of JAM Total Sports.

He is assisted by volunteers from the Thai Boxing Community Centre.

While on his visit Mr Barwell saw member Michael Calunga presented with the Jack Petchey award for outstanding achievement in the community.

Mr Barwell said: "Schemes like The Box Office operate all across Croydon, and play a huge role in strengthening our community.

"I am proud to live in and represent an area where so much good voluntary work is going on, with young people like Michael leading the way to make our town just that little bit better."