A local politician has turned promoter to back a busy and inspiring boxing academy in his council ward.
Independent councillor Peter Atkinson, who represents North Portslade on Brighton and Hove City Council, spoke out after a recent visit to the Mile Oak Boxing Academy.
Councillor Atkinson said: “It was busy, lively and inspiring, with children of all ages taking part in all aspects of training.”
At the academy’s spacious gym, at Hill Park Upper School, in Foredown Road, Portslade, he met the lead coach Bill Davies and members of his team.
Mr Davies is a well-known local boxer and trainer who has lived in Portslade all his life and holds a professional boxing coach licence.
Councillor Atkinson said that Mr Davies was also the head coach for Sussex, which meant that boxers could represent the county under him.
He is helped by longstanding trainer Philip Philipou and Ami Roberts who has a background in policing as well as boxing coaching.
The club has links to Chris Eubank, with Bill’s brother, Ronnie, who pops in on sessions, having helped to train the former world champion and mentored his son Chris Eubank Jnr.
The boxing academy is administered by Mr Davies’s wife Tracy and a colleague – and all adults have DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) certificates, are trained fully in first aid and have safeguarding in place. The two admin staff are also safeguarding officers by profession.
The club meets on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
Councillor Atkinson said: “Operating a boxing club incurs rent and various expenses and, to ensure accessibility to all children, the club has made every effort to keep costs as low as possible.
“Local support is instrumental in helping the club create a safe and affordable space for the youth in our community.
“Bill, Tracy and their colleagues have done a great job in setting the club up and they would welcome support in helping it go from strength to strength.”
For more information, including training times and how to support the club, click here. The website includes a link to the club’s Just Giving page.
Bill Davis is a fine man who gives up his time and energy to help the local youth. What an inspiration to all! Could do with more like Bill in the world. Good luck Bill and the team!