Sykes to open new boxing club on Monday

Dewsbury super featherweight Gary Sykes will officially open the Central Boxing Club, which is based at the back room in Dicky’s Gym in Batley.

Sykes will be based at the gym, which will be run by his trainer Julian McGowan, and he will be joined by fellow Dewsbury pros Mike Smith and Tony Aitcheson.

McGowan, together with a group of friends and family, has spent the last few weeks revamping the room.

New boxing equipment has been bought as McGowan embarks on an exciting project which will see some of the top professionals in British boxing travelling to spar with Sykes, Smith and Aitcheson.

McGowan said: “Much of mine and Gary’s time has been spent travelling to other gyms to find sparring opponents.

“The new facilities at Dicky’s should help attract top boxers to come to us and everybody is excited about training there.”

At the official opening on Monday (7pm) it is hoped a number of current and ex-pros will attend.

Carl Johanneson, who Sykes beat last March in the second defence of his British title, will be there along with former Commonwealth welterweight champion James Hare.

Members of the public are welcome to attend Monday’s event, when there will be snacks and a drink available.