The Kings Heath Boxing Club is doing a wonderful job.
It is hugely popular with the local community, especially the youngsters who spend so much time there.
It helps give local youths something to do, keep them off the streets and doing some quality physical exercise and, very importantly, has given lots of young men self-discipline and direction.
I was delighted to be asked to visit the Club and meet the coaches and youngsters there, some of whom have boxed for England in their age-range.
I went to support this club a few months ago when they hosted the Welsh Under 18’s boxing team at the County Cricket Ground (they beat the Welsh national team then- an excellent achievement).
Boxing and ‘boxercising’ are a very tough physical workout. It also gives our young adults the chance to learn the arts of patience, discipline and decision making in a safe, sporting environment and I was really impressed with what I saw.
As you can see from the photo I did get in the ring-and made sure to be wearing the blue gloves!