FRED Done may have never been in a boxing ring before - but he's splashed out £25,000 to help give youngsters in his home city a fighting chance to make the big time.

Ordsall-born millionaire bookie Fred loved life back in the days he wore short pants at the famous Salford Lads Club.

When he was a regular he wasn't so bothered about the historic building, since given iconic status by the Smiths who were pictured outside, but more bothered about getting his turn playing table tennis, football or draughts.

Boxing was never for Fred who remained a keen marathon runner, so why did he hand over a cheque to totally revamp the gym and build a new ring?

Fred explained: "As a boy I had such a pretty face and wasn't cut out for boxing. I would run away from fights!

"I came in a year ago to have a look round and see what was needed and they produced my old membership card and showed me the card that was used by Eddie Coleman and Graham Nash, who was in the Hollies.

"Boxing instils discipline in young people. I have the utmost respect for boxers because boxing is the hardest sport in the world. You need guts and courage, there is nowhere to hide when you are out there.

"I'm proud of my roots and this is a chance for me to put something back. It is important we keep kids off the streets and give them a chance to participate in sport.

"I noticed that they let girls in nowadays and it is the Salford Lads and Girls Club. In my day it was lads only. I must have been a member for four years or so and probably left when I discovered girls and met my wife Mo."

Warren Smith, chairman of the club who was at the official unveiling of the refurbished boxing gym, said: "Fred Done values his roots and I would like to thank him for his immense generosity. It is his money that has made this facility possible."

Youngest gym member Kaden Green, who's six, said: "Our teachers know I am the best boxer in the class."