KIDDERMINSTER boxers have been given a knockout boost with the opening of what is believed to be the first dedicated boxing gym in the town for two decades, writes Gurdip Thandi.

Mikey’s Boxing Gym and Personal Training Centre, which is based in Whitehouse Road, Kidderminster, has been set up by Michael Mikolajczyk and his wife Kara and was unveiled last Saturday.

The gym spans 8,000-square feet, boasts an 18ft-ring, 20 punch bags and speed balls among its facilities.

Since it opened, more than 70 people of varying levels and ages have signed up to hone their sparring skills.

Former amateur boxer and fitness trainer Michael, 32, said: “I believe this is the first specialist boxing gym in the town for 20 years, since the Green Street club closed.

“There is a massive demand for it. Kidderminster has a rich boxing history with many fighters going on to become professionals in the past. But in recent years, it has been hard for young boxers as they had to travel to dedicated gyms out of town.

“But now they have something on their doorstep and I’ve had a good response so far, with people from total beginners to professionals coming along or getting in touch showing interest.”

He added: “The open day was a great success and we had plenty of people through the door. We moved into the unit a month before and worked flat out to get everything ready.”

Regular classes will be held throughout the week for adults and children aged five to 16, while members will be able to use the facilities outside of those sessions. Special free sessions will also beheld for two to four-year-olds.

“Kara used to travel all over to compete in karate but she is also qualified in childcare so she will be running these classes for the younger children to get them fit and active from an early age,” commented the coach.

“We are speaking to a number of different organisations to perhaps set up sessions with young people. As well as getting them interested in the sport, it gives them something positive to do and keeps them off the streets.

“We’ve had a lot of support from family and friends to get this up and running, which we are extremely grateful for. Local businesses have also helped us out with equipment and work to the gym.”