Government Minister Liam Byrne Congratulates Moss Side Fire Station on ‘Knock Out Success’
09 January 2009
Boxing and firefighting might not appear to be ideal partners, but Moss Side firefighters have proven it’s the right combination needed to help the young people in their community. Their success drew Liam Byrne, Minister for the Cabinet Office, to Moss side Fire Station to see first hand the community boxing club that has been drawing young people in from across Moss Side.
The Minister, who leads the government’s efforts to tackle social exclusion spent time on Thursday 8th January 2009 seeing how this highly successful gym, thought to be the first in the UK, operates.
The gym was initially designed to engage with young people, providing a safe and structured environment to learn the skills of boxing as well as educating them on the dangers of fire setting and some of the dangers that all the community face when fire fighters are attacked. It has also proved to be a successful method of drawing young people away from the ‘gang culture’ and into a more disciplined and focussed lifestyle.
The gym has evolved and is now attracting and helping to influence the health and well being of all age groups and abilities. Example of this is the exercise classes held for amputees and over 50’s.
Supported by top boxers
Since opening in June 2008 the gym has gone from strength to strength. An indication to its impact is that it has been visited and supported by a number of the countries top boxers including Amir Khan, Ricky Hatton, David Haye and Jamie Moore. This is a testament to the hard work of the fire fighters in providing a dedicated boxing facility for the young people of Moss Side. In September, Audley Harrison set up his pre fight camp at the gym prior to successfully defeating Brazilian George Arias.
To date the success of the gym has been acknowledged by many as being a great success and has featured on both TV and radio programmes identifying innovative ways of enhancing community cohesion.
"So inspiring"
On visiting the gym Liam Byrne said “It’s so inspiring to see the work that Moss Side Fire Station is doing with local young people. It’s clear to me that the youngsters really enjoy the boxing training and love coming to their local fire station to learn from the fire-fighters.
“Boxing is a sport that appeals to many youngsters so it’s great that they can get involved in a positive activity that allows them to develop important life skills and gives them discipline and focus. It’ll help them realise their potential and get on in life, regardless of their background.”
"Making a real difference in the community"
County Fire Officer Barry Dixon said “I am proud of the work our firefighters have achieved at grass roots level. In developing the project they have created mutual respect, discipline and commitment, making a real difference in the community.”
Councillor Paul Shannon, Chairman of the Greater Manchester Fire Authority said, “Our Firefighters have successfully attracted hard to reach groups in our communities through innovation and passion. The gym is just one of the ways in which the Fire Authority is supporting their work and we will continue to encourage initiatives that bring our communities together.”
Editors notes:
Moss Side Fire Station
Moss Side,
Manchester,
M15 5NR.
The Public Relations Officer
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters,
146 Bolton Road, Swinton, Manchester M27 8US.
Telephone 0161 608 4091