A BOXING coach who has been teaching young people for 30 years has been honoured with a civic award.

Harry Scott, 62, of Cherbury Walk, is the fifth person to receive a Swindon Citizens' Award after being nominated by one of his students.

The accolade will be officially handed over by Swindon mayor Stan Pajak on April 30, when he will bring the award to a training session in the gym at the County Ground.

Father of five Mr Scott became involved with Walcot Boxing Club as a volunteer coach after emigrating from Jamaica in the seventies.

He explained: "I always enjoyed boxing when I was growing up in Jamaica and I wanted to carry on that interest."

Harry insists that boxing, far from encouraging a violent attitude, is a good way of instilling discipline in youngsters.

He said: "There have been many people that I have taught who have come to me with an attitude, thinking they know everything and not willing to listen to anyone.

"It is all about teaching respect and encouraging that in others. I always teach my students that without respect, you cant hope to do well in life."

Harry, who works for Book Club Associates, mostly coaches those aged 8-16.

He runs sessions five nights a week at the Walcot Boys Club and on Saturdays in the gym at the back of the County Ground Hotel.

Since beginning work as a volunteer coach, Harry has earned his assistant and senior coaching badges.

He was nominated by 14 year old pupil Christian Rees-Bains, who said: "His input has been to build hundreds of young people's self-respect, esteem and to develop their understanding of fitness and health.

"Within this Mr Scott has taught young people to value and respect others to develop self discipline and structure within their lives. He has offered many a support and caring network within this club.

"He has encouraged so many young people to achieve their potential within a safe environment."