A SPECIAL programme aimed at introducing young people to boxing will be held in Blackburn YMCA next Monday.

"Kid" Gloves is backed by the Amateur Boxing Association of England and the Sports Council.

Qualified coaches will demonstrate to youngsters, boys and girls aged between eight and 16, the fundamental skills of "the noble art".

Awards will be presented to those who successfully complete the course.

The scheme will run over a 10-week period and involve a minimum of 20 sessions before final assessment.

There is no sparring involved.

Practice will be provided by skill-challenging situations like shadow boxing, partner work, pack-work and a variety of hitting apparatus.

"The purpose of the scheme is to increase participation in the sport and develop skill but, most importantly, to let them have fun," said Yaqoob Hussain, a boxing coach at the YMCA.

The programme runs from 6pm to 7pm on Monday and for approximately the following 10 weeks.

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