Sergeant helps young to box clever to avoid crime

A WALSALL police officer is giving young people in the borough a 'fighting chance' to stay out of trouble through a Thai boxing programme.

Sergeant Richard Jacques, who is part of the Caldmore and Palfrey neighbourhood policing team, is a member of the United Kingdom Thai Boxing Federation and has more than 20 years' experience as an instructor.

He launched his Fighting Chance Thai boxing programme in the Walsall area two years ago, offering free courses to local teenagers at a variety of venues around the borough.

More than 100 young people have now been through the programme, which offers professional-standard Thai boxing drills combined with the opportunity to discus issues like knife crime, drugs and gang culture.

Sgt Jacques, said: "The training programme is very strenuous, but despite this we have a relatively low drop-out rate.

"It teaches self-discipline and respect for others and as part of the course we encourage young people to look at how their behaviour impacts on the local community. For instance, we invite along a victim of crime to talk about their experiences."

At the end of each programme, of eight two-hour sessions, graduates are presented with a certificate recognised by the United Kingdom Thai Boxing Federation.

Sgt Jacques added: "I have had some cracking comments from some of the people who have taken part, many of whom previously wouldn't have given a police officer the time of day.

"The most rewarding aspect is to know the majority of those who take part in the programme stay out of trouble – and as I am out on patrol I often get a nod or a wave from them."

The Fighting Chance programme is looking to expand in the West Midlands and would welcome support from other martial arts exponents.

To help Sgt Jacques call 0845 113 500 ext 7881 6264.