Empire Fighting Chance Knockout Launch

We proudly launched our new facility Wednesday 24^th June with a host of heavyweight names from around the city. These included Mayor George Ferguson, Police Commander John Reilly, World Champions Lee Haskins and Lee Selby, who is also ambassador for the charity.The launch opened with a short video, shot and edited by two local film makers Jeremy Charles and Daniel Bowen, a copy of which can be found on our website.The highlight of the evening was a short speech by 20 yr old Abdi Awale, who was one of the first young people to attend our initial sessions in 2007.Abdi said  “I started coming to the Empire out of curiosity and because it was free, I liked it and it helped me focus in school. I am now in my second year studying engineering at the University of the West of England. I have come a long way and I thank everyone who has helped contribute to the charity and please continue to do so, it is great work.”Mayor George Ferguson speech focused about the pride that surrounds the Empire Gym and the motivation that it gives to young peopleCrispin Busk, the owner of Kabuto Noodles talked about some of the reasons for his support. Kabuto were our first corporate sponsor and their help has been invaluable to us over the years.We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who attended and have helped us over the past few years.(Photography Credit: Sophie Merlo)