IF IT is a growth industry that you want, then look no further than Lights Out Boxing Academy in Bradford.

Formed just over three months ago, the multi-cultural, community-based Girlington club has already reached its capacity of 80 pupils and there is also a waiting list.

Well-renowned professional coach Inzar Ahmed, who is at the club every weekday evening, said: "It is getting kids off the streets and we have pupils who are aged between eight and 25, including girls.

"A lot of them come from the local area but they are also coming from other parts of Bradford, Halifax and Leeds."

Ahmed, who has worked with Amir Khan and trained with such notables as Freddie Roach, added: "We also have the opportunity to expand our gym into a room that is currently holding tables and chairs."

The academy is the realisation of a dream for the married father-of-four, who said: "I've been wanting to do it for a long time but because I have been attached to different camps, I've not been able to give 100 per cent to Bradford. But I finally decided that it's time to open something here.

"We've got a lot of issues in the community, in terms of crime and drugs. We need to tackle and address these issues. We need to get these kids off the streets and enrol them into programmes such as boxing.

"That's our main idea. We're also here to tackle obesity and prevent bullying from taking place as well.

"Boxing is probably one of the best ways to tackle these issues, because you can target the kids from seven-plus and you can stick with them until they turn pro at 28, 29, 30.

"It brings a lot of discipline; a lot of confidence. It broadens their skills, it helps them go out there and achieve. It's a way of life."

Ahmed, who works for Bradford Council's fleet and transport team, has high aspirations for the club.

"In the future, I see some world champions coming out of here," he said.

"I know what it takes to build a world champion, I've got the formula, so I'm aiming to create a few world champions from here."

Ahmed said the demand for girls to attend has also been huge, so a female coach has been brought on board to nurture their talent.

He thanked the community for their "unbelievable" response and for turning out to show their support at an open day.

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