The London Fire Brigade Boxing Club (LFBBC) is making a significant impact on young lives in Croydon and Merton, offering free boxing sessions for teenagers aged 13 to 18. The club has already supported over 300 young people, providing not just physical training but also mentorship and a sense of community.
Gladiator Montell Douglas Visits the Club
Montell Douglas, known as Fire on the television show Gladiators and a dual Olympian for Team GB, recently visited the club to experience its empowering atmosphere firsthand. Douglas, who competed in the 100 metres at the Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics and later switched to bobsleigh for the Beijing 2022 Winter Games, praised the club's approach.
“What really stood out to me was the energy and warmth in the room – it’s more than just boxing, it’s a space where young people feel seen, supported and empowered,” she said. “You can feel their confidence through every move. It isn’t just about sport in there, it’s about giving young people structure, discipline and belief in themselves.”
Nominated for London Sport Awards
The LFBBC has been nominated for the Supporting Young Londoners Award at the 2026 London Sport Awards, which will be held at the Guildhall on 29 April. The awards, supported by the City of London Corporation, celebrate individuals, projects, and organisations that help Londoners lead healthier, more active lives.
Douglas, an official ambassador for the awards, understands the importance of such spaces for young people. “For many of these young people, access to safe, supportive spaces like this can be life changing. It gives direction, community and the tools to build resilience both inside and outside the gym,” she added.
Club Founder Charlie Beatt
The club was founded in 2019 by Charlie Beatt, a firefighter since 2002, who wanted to engage the London Fire Brigade with the local community following the Grenfell Tower fire. Beatt, 46, runs the training sessions and has created a programme that combines boxing with mentorship.
Douglas took part in a training session with Beatt during her visit, experiencing firsthand the club’s impact. She emphasised the importance of awards like the London Sport Awards in highlighting such initiatives. “The London Sport Awards shine a spotlight on the people and programmes doing incredible work behind the scenes. It’s so important we celebrate these initiatives because they’re making a real difference in communities across the city.”
London Sport is a charity dedicated to helping all Londoners live longer, healthier, and happier lives through physical activity. The London Sport Awards, supported by the City of London Corporation, recognise the unsung heroes of the capital’s sports community.
