Council donation proves a real knockout for Wigan Borough boxing gym

Council donation proves a real knockout for Wigan Borough boxing gym

L-R: Adam Blezard (Be Well), Adrian Fleming (Team Leigh Boxing), Cllr Chris Ready, Chris Essex-Crosby (Be Well), Team Leigh boxer Paddy Hewitt, GM Mayor Andy Burnham and Cllr Dane Anderton with the donated treadmill

Top boxing talents and aspiring youngsters at a successful Wigan Borough community club will be fighting fit with the help of a treadmill gifted by Be Well Wigan.

Team Leigh Boxing Club, based at Leigh Boxing and Fitness Gym on Scott Street, took delivery of the running machine from Wigan Council’s leisure service earlier this week.

The donation coincided with a visit from the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, who is also president of the not-for-profit club.

Councillor Chris Ready, portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods at Wigan Council, said: “When we heard the club was looking for a treadmill we were only too happy to step in!

“Our Be Well movement is about helping people of all ages from across our borough lead healthier, happier lives - and we’re also proud of the many local community organisations who share our passion for sport, leisure and wellbeing.

“Boxing is a brilliant way for young people to be active and, as well as producing tremendous talents who have gone on to represent their country, Team Leigh Boxing Club do such brilliant work with so many local boys and girls - helping them improve their fitness and develop the determination, discipline and skills to enjoy themselves and be successful in the ring.

“We hope their new treadmill will help the club continue to make such an incredible impact in our community.”

Products of Team Leigh Boxing Club regularly shine on the national and international stage; including Team GB training squad member Paddy Hewitt - a three-time national champion who won gold in a European competition in North Macedonia last November - and his twin brother Will who has also won three national titles and represented England.

Others to have flown the flag for their country or earned a place on the national talent pathway include Eloise Edwards, Cain Morris, Ethyn Weaver and two-time national champion John Dugdale.

The gym’s driving focus, however, is on participation - with anyone able to come along each night for a small fee. Youngsters don’t even have to step into the ring and can instead simply use the club facilities to exercise and meet others in a fun, safe environment.

Adrian Fleming, head coach at Team Leigh Boxing Club, said: “Winning titles is great but for the past 22 years this club has always been about getting kids off the streets.

“Over the years we’ve had so many parents say that it’s changed their kid’s life - and that’s why we do what we do. We’re a real community club, and if some of the kids end up being decent boxers on top of that then it’s a bonus.

“The treadmill is really important because our training isn’t all about punching bags, it’s about getting fit as well and this sort of heavy-duty equipment would cost an extortionate amount for a club like ours that mostly relies on subs.

“We’re really grateful to Wigan Council and Be Well for their support.”

The club continues to look for support, including a new kit sponsor, and also has a Crowdfunder page (external link).

Find out more about Team Leigh Boxing Club at leighboxing.com or by following Leigh Boxing and Fitness Gym on Facebook.