Boxing promoter Kellie Maloney is to act as an ambassador for a new club in Whitebeam Avenue, Bromley and is to attend its official launch this weekend.

Uppercutz has been set up as a charity to encourage aspiring young boxers to get into the ring, enabling them to improve their fitness and learn life skills including discipline, commitment and respect.

The club is run by Ian Melin of Petts Wood, who started boxing at the age of 16 and was recognised as a talent coach by Maloney, formerly known as Frank, when they met at a local gym.

Maloney rose to fame as manager of formidable boxer Lennox Lewis, while more recently, the promoter from Bromley has appeared in the Celebrity Big Brother house.

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“Boxing is so important to me and has been throughout my life. It is what has kept me sane with all that I have been through in my personal life,” Maloney said.

“I’m so pleased that my own love of the sport has inspired Ian to coach the next generation of boxers. I look forward to being involved with the club and hope to do some coaching there myself.”

Melin was determined to open a club for young people in the Bromley area as funding shortages have forced many other boxing gyms to close down.

With financial support from his employer and from the Kent Community Foundation, Melin has transformed a disused football clubhouse into a fully equipped boxing gym, which boasts a 14ft ring, 10 punch bags and all the latest gym equipment.

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Uppercutz will be officially opened by Council Leader Stephen Carr at a launch event at 1.30pm on Saturday, January 9.

“I have been enormously impressed with the enthusiasm of Mr Melin and his team for making their vision come to life. I have always believed boxing to be a great sport, not only for fitness but more importantly teaching young people discipline and respect,” said Carr.

Uppercutz is open to new members from the age of 10. Both sexes are encouraged to attend and beginners are welcomed. Membership costs £30 a year, plus an additional fee for each coaching session attended. Sessions are available most weekday evenings.

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