Pensioners say 'box and brew' events are a knockout

Geoff Perry, 75, right, who says his mobility and stamina have improved, being put through his paces by coach Paul Gill

Boxing sessions to boost the health and fitness of a town's older generation have been a big hit.

The JG Next Generation Foundation - a non-profit venture to boost people's self-confidence set up by professional boxer Jordan Gill - has been putting on "box and brew" events in March, Cambridgeshire.

Geoff Perry, 75, who joined three months ago with his wife, Jane, 71, said it gave them a "real high".

Boxing coach Paul Gill - Jordan's dad - said: "We call the sessions 'box and brew' because after a workout we sit down with a cuppa and put the world to rights."

Paul Gill says that he loves coaching the punching pensioners, and enjoys seeing the progress they make as they grow in confidence

Cambridgeshire County Council has helped fund "box and brew", and said it had "huge health and social benefits".

Mr Gill, who as a 40-year pedigree in boxing, added: "It's not all about throwing punches.

"It's more about getting the elderly together, helping their balance, mobility, strength and, importantly, mental wellbeing.

"We have a chap here, who, when he first came had to sit down to do the exercises and spar.

"He used sticks to walk, but after three-months he can get about without them and he's freely standing now," he added.

Linda Smith, 53, says the boxing sessions are great for her mental health

Linda Smith, 53, from Chatteris, said: "It has benefited my mental and physical health so much.

"It motivates me, helps me with co-ordination and it's great socially to get out and meet new people."

Jane Perry, 71 said she was never a fan of boxing, but said the sessions were "really enjoyable"

"My family and friends are really surprised I have taken up boxing", said Jane Perry, 71.

"My husband does it with me and we feel really good - it gets rid of all your aggression.

"It's great for helping you with posture. I won't be stopping anytime soon," she said.

A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire County Council added it was "delighted" to help support the sessions through its Care Together programme.

They added it reduced frailty and social isolation and helped people live independently for longer.

"Alongside the physical benefits, it allows participants to make intergenerational connections in their local area and access wider support."

They said "box and brew" also challenged boxing stereotypes.