Norman set for punchbag charity effort

SHEPSHED’S former English flyweight boxing champion Louis Norman will be attempting to box for 100 rounds non-stop on the punchbag at Norman Warriors Boxing Club in Brook Street, Shepshed this Saturday (August 14).

Norman will start the challenge at 9am in a bid to raise money for the charity MIND and awareness about the importance of people’s mental health.

He said: “It’s been a tough time for me personally: in and out of the ring. But I think its important that I give something back to people that have helped me, raise awareness for mental health and as much money as possible for the charity.”

In addition to his charity attempt Louis has introduced a ‘Talk and Train’ session at the boxing club from 6pm-6.45pm every Tuesday night, which is slowly seeing more people join in at a discounted rate of £2 a go session

“Mental health is a taboo subject for many people to talk about and until the last year or so I’d include myself in that. But it’s important that people talk about their problems, and I just want to create a ‘safe space’ for people to train or ‘let some steam off’ if that’s what they want to do,” said Norman.

“I’ve had my licence suspended by the BBBofC due to the problems I’ve had, but I’m getting there slowly with the right people helping me through the process,” he added.

Norman’s manager and promoter Carl Greaves said: “I think it’s a brilliant challenge for Louis to attempt and I have every confidence he will complete and raise some money for a great cause.

“He has really struggled over the last couple of years, but he is heading in the right direction, and I know he is ‘champing at the bit’ to get back in the ring, when the time is right”

Norman said: “I think it’s going to take me 6 ¾ hours which allows me one minute rest between each round. It’s going to be hard work, but I know I can do it and any support on the day will be greatly appreciated.”

• For more information or to donate please go to www.gofundme. com/f/2-sweet-100-rounds-onthe