Community rallies after boxing gym break-in

A boxing gym in Warminster has thanked the community for its support after a break-in in which £2,000 worth of equipment was stolen.

War Boxing Academy, in Silver Street, was broken into on the evening of Wednesday 7th October, with weight plates, dumbbells, kettlebells, Olympic bars and tools among the items taken.

Following the incident, the gym re-opened on Monday 12th October, with members offering to donate items and funds to help the facility get back on its feet.

Head coach Chris Darker said he was alerted to the break-in by the neighbouring tattoo parlour, after someone suspected the gym had been entered the previous night.

Chris said the theft was particularly frustrating because the club had been using funds to support young boxers to travel to competitions around the south of the country. However, as they work to restore the facility, Chris said this may be reduced.

“It will probably have to calm down a bit now because we’ll have to pay to sort this out. There just isn’t a lot of money in a community boxing club,” said Chris.

“Replacing this equipment isn’t simply a case of popping to the shops. It costs money that could otherwise be spent developing our boxers, supporting competitions and improving the facilities for our members. It also means sessions and training plans will be affected while we work out how to move forward.”

War Boxing Academy has been open for just over a year and has about 35 core members, alongside around 50 people who attend sessions more casually. It offers boxing and fitness activities for people of different ages and abilities.

A statement shared on the gym’s social media thanked members, families and the wider Warminster community for their support following the break-in.

“They may have taken our equipment, but they haven’t taken our determination, our spirit or our community,” it said.

Wiltshire Police are appealing for information following the burglary.

A spokesperson said, “If you have any information, please contact PC Malin Davis by emailing 71490@wiltshire.police.uk You can also provide information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

 

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