Colin McMillan with amateur boxers who are pursuing the sport at a slightly higher level

Acadmey set to launch at Redbridge Sports

Former world champion Colin McMillan, who is set to launch his own boxing training academy at the Redbridge Sports Centre in the new year, introduces his special pilot project at the centre next week.

The ex-WBO world champion has worked with Redbridge Council in the past and is excited about the proposed academy and the courses introducing children and adults to the basics of boxing.

McMillan, who won a world title after starting his career as a local schoolboy, has been busy with TV roles including a cameo part in BBC TV’s EastEnders and appears in a ‘Great Featherweights’ boxing feature on Sky Sports.

He stresses: “Boxing as a sport is a great character builder, allowing young people to grow in self-esteem and confidence – and learning the disciplines of respect, motivation and hard work.

“In today’s environment, with the added worry of gang culture, the boxing project aims to encourage healthy living, enabling young people and children to harness their energy in a positive fashion.”

His aims for all ages of the local community, including both men and women, is to raise awareness of the academy which will offer a selection of free passes at the courses where normal charges usually apply.

Local businesses are backing the initiative, and accountant JK Shah will be sponsoring some of the children and providing equipment.

Mr Shah said: “The boxing project is an opportunity for local youngsters to come along to the Redbridge Sports Centre for a training session with a former world boxing champion.

“With the problems facing many kids today, this is a good way of teaching them positive values.”

Pilot schemes: Boxercise classes for over-15s start on Tuesday, September 13, 7.30pm-8.30pm, with half-term taster sessions (October 24-28) 1.30pm-3pm.

For costs and further information contact 07782 635615, or 020 8498 1000 or www.colin-mcmillan.com.

The Recorder has teamed up with boxing champ Colin McMillan in a competition to offer a free place on the Boxercise course for over-15s that start at Redbridge Sports Centre next Tuesday. To enter answer the simple question.

■ At what weight was Colin McMillan a boxing world champion?

To enter email the answer to colin.mcmillan@virgin.net