Uppercutz Boxing club was officially opened by Councillor Stephen Carr on Saturday, with Bromley promoter Kellie Maloney in attendance in her role as ambassador for the club.

The former football clubhouse in Whitebeam Avenue, Bromley has been transformed into a top notch boxing gym by City worker Ian Melin, 55, of Petts Wood.

Set up as a charity, Uppercutz is encouraging young people to get into boxing, keeping them physically fit and teaching them life skills such as discipline, commitment and respect.

“I’m overwhelmed at the support we have had, it is the culmination of a very long road, but it’s all been worth it now that the club is up and running.

“I owe a great deal to those who have helped to make it happen, particularly Councillor Carr who has backed us from the outset.

“It’s a joy to have Kellie here sharing her wealth of experience about the boxing world. I look forward to working closely with her to make this club the best in the business.”

Maloney, formerly known as Frank, rose to fame as manager of formidable ex-boxer Lennox Lewis and is particularly keen to get girls involved and has offered to coach some of them herself.

Maloney said: “Ian is so passionate about the sport and you need that drive to be successful in boxing. I’m a great believer in the benefits – it’s a good disciplined sport, a great stress reliever and it is character building.

“If we can encourage the young people of Bromley and surrounding areas to come here, it will not only help the club, it will help them develop as human beings.”

With financial support from his employer and from the Kent Community Foundation, Melin has transformed the derelict building into a fully equipped gym, boasting a 14ft ring and all the latest boxing equipment.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for young people,” Councillor Carr said.

“I have always been a fan of boxing, it’s not just about fitness, it’s also about learning discipline and respect. I wish Ian and his team absolute success.”