BOXING has become the new tool in the fight against youth crime in London. GREG BURNS paid a visit to two boxing schemes hoping to set the benchmark in Hammersmith & Fulham and help get troubled teens back on the right path.

YOUNGSTERS in Fulham and Shepherd's Bush getting together for a punch-up.

Hardly going to instil confidence that the borough's youths can be diverted away from a life of violence and crime is it?

Wrong.

In fact it seems to be the perfect way for them to learn vital life lessons, keep fit and channel their energies into something positive.

That is the view of the Met Police, H&F Council and community groups who have helped set up boxing clubs for teenagers across the borough.

One of them was launched at Hurlingham & Chelsea School, in Peterborough Road, last Wednesday (23/6) where members put on impressive displays for guests and dignitaries.

It is the brainchild of Sands End Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team who believe the free sessions – which will be available for anyone living in the area between 11 and 17 – can be a tool for change in the area.

Youngsters who take part will not only learn how to box but the sessions will also be mixed with 'life modules' on gun, knife and gang crime, bullying, truancy, drugs, anti-social behaviour and road safety.

Sergeant Mark Trower, of the team, said: "We really hope this club will help us engage with the youngsters in the borough who are on the cusp of crime or already in the criminal justice system. I feel we will be really proud of what we can achieve here."

Phil Cross, headteacher, said: "In my view this is as good a model as you can get of young people and the police working together. It is all about creating positive role models for the youngsters."

It seems that boxing looks ready to challenge football as the traditional sport of the young masses in London. But why?

Terry Gilliam, president of the London Amateur Boxing Association, said: "No other sport can teach you the same discipline and respect than boxing. And it is not a sport you can do every now and then. You need to be committed.

"When I was a young lad getting into boxing I would train in tiny rooms. So to see the facilities the youngster have these days is amazing. If it keeps two or three kids away from drugs and crime then they have done a fantastic job."

Former European light welterweight champion and and British light welterweight challenger Ted Bami and Britain's number one female 48kg boxer Hannah Beharry were on hand to sign autographs and provide inspiration at the school.

Hannah, 23, who is eyeing up Olympic gold in 2012, said: "I was very naughty at school and got into a lot of trouble. But then I got into boxing at the age of 18 and I became addicted to it.

"It is a great way of channelling your mind and focusing on something. You get to meet some excellent people and mentors and it helps you realise that there are other paths to go down."

Meanwhile down the road at Sulgrave Youth Club, in Goldhawk Road, Shepherd's Bush, members have just completed their own 10-week boxing course where youngsters have been learning the art of the sport.

Leroy Nicholas set up his own coaching company Sweet Science three years ago, and has been taking the sessions at the club.

And he is in no doubt that the sport of boxing is the best tool to connect with young people.

He said: "I became increasingly concerned about the lack of respect shown by young people.

"Even simple things such as not opening doors for people or saying please and thank-you. I had been boxing since the age of nine and was doing personal training work.

"But then I thought it would be great to try and use my skills to help youngsters get that respect back.

"And boxing is a great way to do that. Boxing is all about respect, discipline and commitment. And believe me, if you get an aggressive youngster to spend a few minutes punching a bag they will be pacified."

So while some teenagers in the borough decide to fight their battles on the streets, it seems the battle to recapture their minds and ambitions is taking place in the ring.

And who knows, they may just unearth the next Ricky Hatton or David Haye in the process.