Success Story
| Region/Nation | South West |
|---|---|
| Sector | Arts, Entertainment and Leisure |
| Programme | Start Up Loans |
| Partner |
Jamie Parker, founder of Bang Bang Boxing, a community boxing gym in Devon.
With the enthusiastic support of the local community, the army veteran transformed a derelict building, which had been empty for around 15 years, to create the first dedicated boxing gym in the heart of Crediton.
Bang Bang Boxing offers competitive boxing training as well as fitness classes open to all ages including over 50s and kids’ boxercise sessions (called 'Little Sluggers and 'Junior Jabbers'), circuit training, self-defence classes and family fun classes on a Saturday.
Jamie also ran a free summer club throughout the school holidays supported by Crediton Town Council and has partnered with the Amber Foundation to offer support to young adults facing complex challenges.
Jamie first discovered his passion for boxing during his 11 years serving with the army and after moving to the small town of Crediton two years ago he found there were no facilities in the area. He took out a Start Up Loan of £15,000 via X Forces Enterprise in 2024 to start the business and launched his own community crowdfunding appeal. He used his loan to help with the fit out of the space and for purchasing equipment such as weights, the boxing ring and running machines.
This isn’t just a boxing gym, it’s a community space that can provide opportunity. We’re working with wellbeing services in the area to help turn this into a community hub which can help people who have lost their way in life.
It’s been quite a journey transforming this derelict building into a business and community space that we can be proud of. The process of getting financial support from the Bank was very smooth and the help with the business plan was invaluable, and the level of community support has been amazing. I’m thrilled to be representing the Bank as their South West Ambassador and I hope to encourage other small businesses and entrepreneurs with an idea to make use of the wonderful opportunity that this loan programme provides.
Jamie Parker Founder, Bang Bang Boxing
Tags related to this content:
More success stories
Read a success story about Woof The Yorkshire Dog Shop
Natalie Press is the founder of Woof The Yorkshire Dog Shop (Woof), which sells a wide range of organic, grain-free and sustainable pet products.
Read a success story about We Make Footballers
Leon Stapleton, founder of We Make Footballers Cardiff, a football training academy for children aged 4-12. Applying for a £15,000 Start Up Loan meant that Leon was able to launch the first We Make Footballers franchise in Wales.
Read a success story about Two Blues Solar
Dan Levene is co-founder of Two Blues Solar, a solar panel installation business which addresses the growing demand for sustainable solutions to help drive the nation's net-zero agenda.
Sign up for our newsletter
Just add your details to receive updates and news from Start Up Loans
Sign up to our newsletter