Gerda Security Products supports ‘A Night of Solidarity’ for Grenfell community

The event has been created to recognise the actions of the local community in the aftermath of the Grenfell Tower tragedy of 14 June 2017. Subsequent to the fire at Grenfell, local boxing and sports clubs joined forces in a bid to help the community rebuild, create safe spaces for youngsters and begin the process of healing and restoring hope to everyone who has been impacted and affected by this devastating event.

In parallel, the London Fire Brigade Boxing Club has worked with local communities across London to deploy the unifying power of sport and provide structure and purpose for the lives of young people by bringing them together with rank-and-file firefighters in boxing gyms in what is a clear show of solidarity and support.

‘A Night of Solidarity’ aims to celebrate both of these endeavours and join them together, duly recognising the hugely important role played by both the London Fire Brigade Boxing Club and those clubs most impacted by the Grenfell Tower fire.

The evening is going to raise funds for local sports charities and the Firefighters Charity. There will be 24 boxers involved in 12 bouts. London Fire Brigade select team members shall compete against boxers from a North Kensington team comprising men, women and youth boxers emanating from a variety of clubs in the local area and across London.

The night is sanctioned by England Boxing with licensed competitors, qualified officials and coaches framed by fully regulated amateur boxing.

‘A Night of Solidarity’ is the culmination of a series of events designed to give the young people involved a fantastic experience and recognise their resilience and contribution towards helping the Grenfell community to heal and move forward. Importantly, their journey is being recorded in a BBC documentary.

Showcase in Parliament

Last month, a wonderful event took place involving a group of young boxers who showcased their skills in Parliament. ‘Ringside on The River Terrace’ was attended by Government ministers, Members of Parliament, Sadiq Khan (the Mayor of London) and leading figures from the world of boxing (among them renowned author Thomas Hauser). Mike Costello served as the host with Andy Clarke providing commentary. The BBC, Sky Sports and The Guardian were among several media organisations represented.

Importantly, and in what was an unprecedented moment, this was the first time in history that a full-size boxing ring has been installed for action at the Palace of Westminster. As such, a truly unique occasion was delivered whereby heritage met the next generation of boxing.

Former London Fire Commissioner Lord Andy Roe (who sits on the Board of GB Boxing, serves as chair of the London Fire Brigade Boxing Club and, across time, has been involved in boxing as a fighter, coach and club official) underpinned this event.

Prior to ‘A Night of Solidarity’ in November, the boxers taking part will visit the home of Great Britain’s Olympic Boxing Programme at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield and have the opportunity to train with members of the GB Boxing squad, duly meeting the men and women who are hoping to represent Team GB at the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.

In addition to the Firefighters Charity, the charities and organisations that will be supported as a result of ‘A Night of Solidarity’ include the All for One Community Club, Armz House, Fit for Life Youth, KOTG, MO1 Youths, Power Hub, The Dalgarno Trust and United Against Violence.

*Interested parties who would like to support ‘A Night of Solidarity’ can do so by visiting the event’s Just Giving page

**Further information can be accessed online at www.anightofsolidarity.co.uk