A FREE boxing club has been launched for young people in North Lynn, thanks to a collaboration between local organisations committed to improving health, wellbeing and community engagement.  

Freebridge Community Housing, Rise North Lynn, West Norfolk Moves, and Heros Gym, with the support of Cllr Austen Moore (North Lynn Ward), have come together to create the North Lynn Boxing Academy, hosted every Monday at the Discovery Centre, Columbia Way. 

Open to boys and girls aged 9 -16, the weekly sessions offer a welcoming introduction to boxing for beginners. Each class focuses on building confidence, developing physical fitness, and teaching discipline in a safe, positive and supportive environment. 

Training is delivered by coaches from Heros Gym, including Mel Payne a former boxer and highly respected local coach. 

Becky Gillick, West Norfolk Active Communities Officer, Active Norfolk said: “This new boxing initiative in North Lynn is a meaningful step in widening access to positive, structured activity for young people.  

“Giving young people the opportunity to thrive in a safe and motivating environment where they can build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.  

“It has been shaped directly by what local young people told us they wanted. Building on their insight, Active Norfolk, community champion Ben Griffin, councillor Austen Moore, Freebridge Community Housing and Heros have worked closely to design a model that removes barriers and reflects the community’s voice.  

“The collaboration, planning, and shared commitment behind the scenes have been essential in bringing this to life and also forms part of the Sport England Place Partnerships work that is ongoing within North Lynn and further afield across King's Lynn and West Norfolk.”  

Cllr Moore, added: “I think boxing is a great sport for young people, because it teaches resilience and discipline, while proving an outlet to let-off steam. Both boys and girls can earn an awful lot from it.  

“It’s very important to have Mel on board. He’s a former boxer and is very well respected as a coach. The children attending will learn an awful lot from him and his coaches.” 

Abbie Panks, Head of Communications and Engagement at Freebridge, added: “The North Lynn Boxing Academy is a brilliant example of what can happen when local organisations, community champions and partners come together with a shared purpose. 

“By combining our strengths, listening to what young people told us they needed, and removing the barriers that can often prevent families from accessing opportunities, we’ve created something that genuinely reflects and supports our community.”

The club, which launched on Monday 12 January, runs sessions for children aged 9-12 from 4pm to 5pm, followed by a session for those aged 13-16 from 5pm to 6pm. 

To book a free place, please click here to use our booking system.

*All pictures are copyright of Freebridge Community Housing.