A FORMER middleweight boxing champion is combining his passion for boxing with a scheme to get people talking in St Helens.

After hanging up his boxing gloves in 2020, St Helens boxer Martin Murray has committed to a number of projects which support people across the community.

With his Wildcard boxing gym in Parr, Martin offers people in the community a productive outlet that helps them let go of any troubles or stresses that they may be experiencing.

St Helens Star: Martin Murray is a former British and Commonwealth middleweight boxing championMartin Murray is a former British and Commonwealth middleweight boxing champion

His ThinkFAST Academy - set up in 2020 but a decade in the making - similarly uses boxing as a tool to intervene and prevent young people with limited opportunities from getting involved in crime.

Hoping to add to his portfolio of community-focused work and turn more attention onto improving people's mental health, Martin is starting weekly 'Boxing and Brew' sessions that are open to anyone over the age of 18.

Using exercise as a tool to improve people's physical and mental health, a post-box brew will aim to break down barriers, get people talking, and reach those struggling in the community.

St Helens Star: Martin has used his ThinkFAST Academy to help troubled young people across St HelensMartin has used his ThinkFAST Academy to help troubled young people across St Helens

Martin, 39, said: "I know the benefits of exercise and I know the difference that it can make on people's mental health.

"The morning sessions are planned as a half an hour boxing circuit and a half an hour brew. It's for people of all fitness levels to get involved and is designed as an open, safe space to be yourself.

"I have lost a few friends to suicide over the years so I want to do something to support people struggling, and get them talking where they won't be judged."

St Helens Star: Martin stressed the importance of exercise for both physical and mental healthMartin stressed the importance of exercise for both physical and mental health

Asked about the work of ThinkFAST in the community, Martin added: "We started the Academy in 2020 but it's something me and my wife have thought about since around 2008.

"It can be challenging but it is so rewarding to see the good it is doing in the community.

"But there is so much more we can do, and these weekly mornings can hopefully help us achieve this and reach more people."

The 'Boxing and Brew' mornings take place at Wildcard boxing gym, Parr Sports Centre from 11 am on Monday, May 9.

To find out more, visit this link.