A knockout opportunity
BOXING returned to Harborough on Friday as Joe Falcon's dream became a reality at the grand opening of the town's new boxing academy, writes Paul Gowler.
Former pro Joe Falcon had been campaigning for many months to open an academy in the town, and recently secured permission and funding to run training sessions at Harborough Leisure Centre.
Speaking to the Mail, Falcon said: "I just want to help people," adding that he hoped the discipline boxing instills would help give young people a better chance in life.
He said: "There are a lot of young people who unfortunately like to drink and are on drugs and I just want to help by giving them something to do."
He stressed that the academy is not just for young people: "We need to look after our older people, as well as our young people."
Shaun Harrald, who has backed Falcon since his campaign began, said: "The council's been great and the police have been great.
"It's pleasing to be able to offer young people something cool to do in their spare time."
Cllr Paul Bremner, present at the opening, said: "It's fantastic to be here, and see everything set up and ready to run."
Cllr Phil Knowles said: "I'm delighted to have an additional facility in the town, not only for the older members of the community, but also for the younger members, which is very, very welcome."
Active Together's Marianne Boyle, sport and health development officer for Harborough, said: "We've gone out and spoken to people, and every time when asked what they want to do, it was boxing."
Funding for the academy came from Active Together, the district council and the Harborough District Leisure Trust. Support was also received support from Harborough police.
Harborough is a town rooted in its legendary boxing history, but has not produced a champion for many years due to the lack of facilities.
It is hoped that the new academy can revive the area's boxing status and perhaps even produce the next Jack Gardner, a local boxing legend who held the title of European heavyweight champion and who is also a relative of Falcon's.
Sessions will take place on Fridays from 6 to 7.30pm for 11 to 16-year-olds, and 7.30 to 9pm for over-16s. On Sundays, sessions will take place from 2 to 3pm for 11 to 16-year-olds, and 3 to 4pm for over-16s.
For more information phone Harborough Leisure Centre, or Marianne Boyle and Zoe Calder on 01858 828282 or email activetogether@harborough.gov.uk.
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Weather for Harborough
Tuesday 22 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North west
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Sunny spells
Temperature: 12 C to 24 C
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