Local boxing clubs across South Yorkshire help to keep kids off the streets
Retro Fitness Limited in Barnsley have been putting on boxing classes for youngsters in Wombwell since 2018
The owner of a South Yorkshire boxing club says the sport is playing a 'vital role' in keeping kids off the streets.
We've been down to Retro Fitness Limited in Barnsley as part of our Say No To Knives investigation.
Charlie Green opened this boxing gym in the Wombell area of Barnsley 4 years ago in 2018.
Figures we've been given from South Yorkshire Police show there's been a 75% drop in the number of people arrested on suspicion of carrying a knife there in that period of time.
Charlie tells me the importance of places like this in the local community shouldn't be underestimated:
"If you want to hang about with kids who carry knives or go about smashing windows then you're going to be in trouble.
"This place here is 100% full of enthusiasm and good people, so that will rub off on you.
"That will be taken away and have a positive impact on both their school and home life.
"It's all about respect and discipline here. All the kids buy into it as well, which is fantastic to see.
"It's good for both their mental and physical health, so it's vital that places like this exist for young people."
You can see more about Retro Fitness Limited on their website below:
https://retro-fitness-ltd.ueniweb.com/