A TREE surgeon from Prestatyn is to step into the boxing ring later this month to raise funds for a charity which supports his fellow military veterans.

Phil Stevens will be taking part in a high-profile amateur boxing event on March 16 at Chester Racecource for Woody’s Lodge, which helps veterans re-engage with their friends and families.

You can donate to Phil’s cause, and help him reach his £2,000 target, by visiting: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Phil-Stevens7.

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Being an ex-member of the Armed Forces himself, Phil said Woody’s Lodge is “a cause that’s close as his chosen charity was a “no-brainer”.

He added: “Straight out of school, I joined the Royal Signals and became an RS operator, taking me on adventures across the globe - from the jungles of Belize and the prairies of Canada to the harsh landscapes of Iraq.

“After my military stint, I found my passion as a self-employed tree surgeon, serving the community in Prestatyn.

“Now, I'm about to step into the boxing ring at the UWCB event on March 16, not just for the challenge, but also to raise funds for Woody's Lodge.

“Woody's Lodge is a charity that's doing incredible work to support veterans. They provide a space for veterans to connect, share experiences, and access the resources they need for a smooth transition to civilian life.

“The organisation is all about fostering a sense of community and offering support, and that's something I truly believe in.”

Phil’s journey into the boxing world started as a spectator, when he would watch WCBC events and think about stepping into the ring himself for a good cause.

When he discovered he could fundraise for Woody's Lodge, he said he knew he had found the “perfect opportunity to give back to those who've served alongside me”.

He has been undertaking five to six training sessions per week and said it’s “easily the toughest thing I’ve done” since his military days.

“But,” he added, “it’s all worth it if I can make a difference in the life of just one veteran through Woody's Lodge.

“As I step into the ring, I carry the spirit of a warrior from my military days and the heart of someone passionate about supporting our veterans.”