FORMER world heavyweight boxing champion, Frank Bruno, was at County Hall, Chelmsford, helping to launch a new self-help book for people who run youth clubs and activities for young people.

FORMER world heavyweight boxing champion, Frank Bruno, was at County Hall, Chelmsford, helping to launch a new self-help book for people who run youth clubs and activities for young people.

Big Frank was helping to launch the booklet having been a member of the voluntary boys club in Wandsworth, London.

Speaking at the launch on Tuesday night , he said: "I was fortunate as a young boy to have attended a local boys' club which started my boxing career. Without those volunteer instructors and staff I wouldn't be where I am today.

"I am happy to support this project, which I hope could help more young people to benefit as I have done, and should lead to more activities for young people in Essex."

The 75-page booklet 'How to start and develop a successful youth club', gives advice about setting up and running clubs and activities for young people. It includes guidance on health and safety, insurance, the law, recruiting staff and fundraising.

The booklet has been developed by Essex County Council's youth services team with the Essex Association of Boys' Clubs and Essex Council for Voluntary Youth Service (ECVYS). It is available free to all local voluntary youth groups in Essex.

Bonnie Hart, the county council's cabinet member for lifelong learning and libraries, said: "Frank is a good example of the great impact voluntary clubs can have on improving young peoples' lives. We hope this booklet will encourage more people to set up youth groups in their local area and give existing groups inspiration and ideas about activities they can get involved in."