Larne man Rab packs a punch for kids charities after Ballyclare training

Rab Mitchell, who has raised thousands of pounds for charity over the years, prepared for the event at the Dunadry Hotel by training at the Spartans Boxing Club in Ballyclare.

His efforts saw him raise a knockout £6173.44, which will be split equally between local charities Children’s Heartbeat Trust and TinyLife.

The charities are particularly close to Rab’s heart since his niece Rosie McLaughlin was born prematurely and needed lifesaving heart surgery.

Family friend’s daughter Caitlyn Parker was also born prematurely, and both families are very grateful for the support they have received from the two charities.

Chief Executive Officer of The Children’s Heartbeat Trust Sarah Quinlan commented: “Over 200 children each year are born with heart disease in Northern Ireland and one third of these children will require further investigation and even surgery.

“This support will make a very real difference to the lives of these families and children.

“We are very thankful to Rab and to William Thompson, who runs Spartans Boxing Club in Ballyclare for giving his time, expertise and premises to prepare for this fantastic event and raising much needed funds for us and for TinyLife.”

Every day in Northern Ireland at least seven babies are born too soon, with some arriving as early as 24 weeks and weighing as little as 1lb. TinyLife, Northern Ireland’s premature baby charity, provides practical and emotional support to the families of premature and sick babies through a raft of Family Support Services.

For information about The Children’s Heartbeat Trust and how to get involved contact 02890 312228, email [email protected] or visit www.childrensheartbeattrust.org.

For information about TinyLife contact 02890 815050 or visit www.tinylife.org.uk