Fight in the ring, not in the street: Gym's campaign on knife crime

An initiative to keep youngsters away from knife crime has been launched in Cosham with a high-energy event.

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Matt Wilkie and Andy Wells launch Gloves Not blades at Artful Dodgers

The launch of the Gloves Not Blades project, at Artful Dodgers Boxing Club, drew together businesses, professional boxers, MPs, councillors, and the Lord Mayor and Mayoress.

It highlighted the gym's role in supporting underprivileged young people - including those in foster care or facing bullying - by providing free or low-cost sessions.

Volunteers and shops have rallied behind the unfunded effort, which seeks greater political backing and funding to expand.

The campaign's motto - “Fight in the ring not on the street” - aims to steer young people away from gang and knife crime by offering boxing as a disciplined alternative in a safe, welcoming environment.

The event featured a knife amnesty bin provided by police, live boxing demos and calls for more volunteers and donations.

PC Kelleher praised the club's impact. He said: "I just think so many today don't understand the impact that they have on carrying a knife and the lasting effects it can have when knives are used in fights.

"And I think the campaign and boxing club is such a great idea because it gets kids off the streets and creates a safe environment for them.'

Mollie Holland, 15, from Cosham, shared her personal gains. She said: "Boxing gives you confidence, it improves your fitness and gives you more inspiration."

Her father Martin Holland said: "She's come so far. Mollie had trouble in school with bullying, then came into the ring, let out her anger and it helps by keeping her off the street."