Isle family box clever

An Isle mum and her two children are keeping it in the family by boxing together for fitness, at their local club.

Shelley Bashforth, her daughter Jessica, 11, and eight-year old son Ryan have all become much fitter since they made the decision to try a new sport and joined Crowle boxing club, run by Mark Lappin.

Jessica has been tipped as a potential future star by her coach.

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“Jessie won two skills bouts, one away and one in our recent home show in Crowle,” said Mark. “Since starting here she has changed her whole attitude to sport and fitness. She was very shy but has really opened up since joining the club.”

The club has been open for two years, after Mark spotted the need for such a facility in the north of the Isle, and he is already spawning champions. Girls in particular have been keen to take up the sport.

Mark added: “It’s great to see the progress of members and we are a real family club. People who never thought of boxing have come along and discovered they have a new talent.”

Shelley Bashforth, 35, said: “This is a fantastic club with fantastic coaches who put so much time and effort in to getting the best out of the kids! Jessica has grown so much in confidence and ability and I’m excited to see her progression! Ryan loves it at the gym although he’s got two years to wait before he can get in a ring and compete.

“We are like one big family there and I’m enjoying doing classes as fitness training! Its a very welcoming place.”