A BOXER has been digging deep into his pockets to fund vital new equipment for a children’s hospital.

Chris Eubank junior said he is “delighted” to have donated £10,000 to Rockinghorse Children’s Charity in Brighton.

The money will be used to buy a mock MRI scanner for the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Eastern Road, Brighton.

The Argus: Chris Euban JR donated thousands to Rockinghorse Children's CharityChris Euban JR donated thousands to Rockinghorse Children's Charity

The scanner will be used to teach young patients how the machines work in the hope it will reduce their stress and anxiety when going for a scan.

Middleweight boxer Chris, who lives in Brighton, said it is “extremely important” to support charities close to home.

He said: “Rockinghorse do an amazing job and completely reply on donations to provide life-saving equipment and support for sick babies, children and young people throughout Sussex.

“This donation is the start of a long-term commitment from me to support Rockinghorse.”

The money will also be used to buy a Visualite ceiling light, which will allow medical staff to project calming images for patients.

The Trevor Mann Baby Unit at the Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton will also receive new equipment bought using money donated by Chris.

Last year, Rockinghorse Children’s Charity said it had lost £50,000 in funding to the cancellation or postponement of major events amid the pandemic.

Janella Merrit, head of fundraising for Rockinghorse, said the charity was grateful to Chris for his “generous donation.”

She said: “Being able to fund all this equipment will make such a difference to the experience of hundreds of sick children being treated at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and the Trevor Mann Baby Unit in Brighton.

“A hospital stay can be a worrying time for children and their families but thanks to this amazing donation their visits will be made so much more comfortable.”

To find out more about how the Rockinghorse Children’s Charity supports sick babies and children visit rockinghorse.org.uk.