The run-down youth club which nurtured the talent of former boxing champ Frank Bruno is to receive £2million to transform it into a state-of-the-art centre for youngsters.

The future of the Sir Phillip Game Centre has long been uncertain, prompting years of campaigning to save it.

However the huge cash injection will not only guarantee the club's long-term future but will provide youngsters with a sports hall, gym, homework rooms, internet access, social and kitchen, and provide Croydon Judo Club with a new home.

The bulk of the money has come from the sale of a council building in Tavistock Road previously used by the judo club. It too will also use the new Sir Phillip Game Centre, which should be open by autumn 2005.

Sheila Hearsey, secretary and coach at Croydon Judo Club, which is currently using temporary premises in Katharine Street, said: "We've been looking for a permanent home since 1972. We've had more temporary accommodations than hot dinners."

Yak El-Droubie, chairman of the Sir Philip Game Managing Trustees, said: "This is a great day for the Sir Philip Game Centre. The opportunities which the club offered to past generations can now be provided in the present and future."

The Sir Phillip Game Centre, in Morland Avenue, Addiscombe, was established in 1947 by the Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Phillip Game as one of three Boys' Clubs in London.