With the enthusiastic support of the local community, Army veteran Jamie Parker transformed a derelict building in Crediton, which had been empty for around 15 years, to create a new boxing gym Bang Bang Boxing.
After 11 years as a physical training instructor in the British Army, Jamie settled in the town in 2022 and quickly realised there were no local boxing facilities.
“There was nowhere to go for boxing, so I thought, why not create my own?” he explained.
The idea came about when Jamie met tattoo artist and former boxer Jinx Cooper.
“I was getting some tattoos done, and we started talking about boxing,” Jamie recalled. “That’s where the whole idea was born – two people with a love for the sport but nowhere to train.”
Jamie secured a £15,000 Start Up Loan from X-Forces Enterprise and launched a crowdfunding campaign to transform the dilapidated shell into a fully equipped gym. He said:
“It’s been quite a journey turning it into something the community can be proud of. The process of getting financial support from the programme was very smooth and the help with the business plan was invaluable.”
With a boxing ring, weights, and fitness machines now in place, Bang Bang Boxing has become a hub for both serious boxers and fitness enthusiasts. The gym offers sessions for all ages, including competitive boxing training and non-contact fitness classes.
“It’s not just about boxing,” Jamie emphasised. “People can come in for circuit training, self-defence, or even just to use the weights. There’s something for everyone.”
Children’s classes, such as ‘Little Sluggers’ and ‘Junior Jabbers,’ have proved popular.
“I love seeing the kids get involved,” Jamie said. “It builds their confidence and teaches them discipline.” Family fun sessions on Saturdays and women-only fitness classes are also a regular part of the gym’s offering.
Jamie has partnered with the Amber Foundation to support young adults facing difficult circumstances and ran a free summer club with Crediton Town Council.
“It’s not just a gym,” Jamie reflected. “It’s a place where people can turn their lives around. Boxing teaches discipline, respect, and resilience.”
Jamie hopes the club will soon compete under England Boxing, with dreams of seeing local boxers rise through the amateur ranks.
“One day, someone from here could go all the way to the Olympics,” he said with a grin. But for now, his focus remains on the community. “There’s no discrimination here. Everyone is welcome, no matter who they are or what their story is.”
To learn more about the Start Up Loans funding support available through XFE, click here. www.x-forces.com/funding
