Charlie Malarkey’s New Ways Boxing Club is being built on the outskirts of York at the New Earswick Sports Ground, with recent progress boosted by a donation of gym equipment from York St John University.
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Charlie said: “The floor is down now and the windows are going in next week, so things are really coming on.
“This donation from York St John is absolutely fantastic.
“They have donated all their old equipment, from a rowing machine to all the weights – you name it, we’ve got it.”
The club also supports the Knives Down Gloves Up campaign, encouraging youth to choose boxing over knife crime.
Adam Stead, managing director at ADS Scaffolding, has supported the project throughout construction.
Mr Stead said: “It’s to encourage young people to pick up some boxing gloves instead of carrying knives – instead of potentially taking someone’s life away and ruining your own.”
Mr Malarkey has worked for the Salvation Army for 17 years and leads its early intervention and prevention team in York.
Former professional boxer Jamie Warters will help coach once the club opens and has said he is eager to get started.
Mr Malarkey said: “The police have been in touch with me and said they have kids as young as 11 who are desperate for it to open.
“No one is making a bean out if this, it’s a charity working for the community.”
Anyone able to support the project can contact Charles.Malarkey@salvationarmy.org.uk or call 07712443163.