Boxing legend Richard Dunn will be packing in the punches when he opens a new knock-out gym for young people in Bradford.
The former British and Commonwealth heavyweight champion from Bradford will be sharing his tips with budding sports stars at the TFD Boxing Club in Holme Wood today (Monday, 26 October) from 6pm.
Based in Bradford Council's Localities-run TFD Youth Centre in Broadstone Way, the non-contact gym boasts punch bags, wall punch bags, treadmills and rowing machines which will be used by groups of young people aged ten to 18-plus.
The opening celebrations will also be attended by Bradford boxers super featherweight Femi Fehintola and light welterweight Nadeem Siddique who will also be on hand to talk to young people and their parents about the sport and its benefits.
Young people will be able to sign up on the night and membership will include taking part in various sessions which teach the basic skills of boxing and use of the equipment.
Coun Michael Kelly, the Council's Executive Member for Services to Children and Young People, said: "Physical exercise and learning a discipline like boxing can really help young people to boost their personal development and and self confidence.
"They also get the chance to learn new skills which in turn will help them to excel at the sport and inspire them to try other new activities in their broader life.
"The ethos of the new boxing gym also reflects the district's b someone campaign, now in its second strand, and has a special focus on giving young people the responsibility for their own future and attainment with the support of adults."
Youth Worker Talish Butt, who has helped set up the gym, said: "The boxing cub aims to promote a level of discipline, fitness, concentration and respect with young people, and it is also a way of encouraging young people who are NEET (not in education, employment or training) to enhance their life skills.
"By participating in boxing it will also help them get rid of any unwanted aggression, and give them something positive to aim for, while also becoming better citizens and role models to their peers."
The gym has been funded by the Council's Grant makers, Localities, Neighbourhood Support Services, City Challenge, Streets Ahead and Positive Futures.
Unemployed James Dutton, 18, of Holme Wood, who has joined the gym, said: "It gives me a chance to get out of the house, it keeps me motivated and it's good for the estate as people can't afford to go far or to the other side of Bradford. It will definitely be a good way to encourage young people to take up sport."
For further details about the gym contact Tallish Butt on 01274 432519, or 07979 454635.
Media Relations Officer:
Carolyne Coyle
Telephone: 01274 432400
Fax: 01274 432005
Email: press.communications@bradford.gov.uk
Date: 26.10.09
