By DAVID COULTER

Last updated 12:28, Friday, 21 November 2008

A FORMER world champion boxer is coming to Haltwhistle to teach youngsters in the town a thing or two.

Ex-IBO world super featherweight title holder Charles Shepherd and business partner Barrie Scougal, an Amateur Boxing Association coach, will host training sessions at Haltwhistle Leisure Centre three times a week.

The duo are keen on teaching the younger population of the town self discipline, respect and confidence through their ‘Champ’s Camp’ sessions.

After staging similar sessions successfully in Cumbria, they were approached by members of the leisure centre to see whether the scheme would be a hit in Haltwhistle.

Mr Scougal said: “There is massive interest in boxing in Haltwhistle and it seemed a good idea.

“It is all about teaching the kids respect and giving them a sense of discipline.

“They have to come on time and in the right kit, and come to work hard for an hour. But they will find it fun.”

Under-10s can take the professional advice in sessions on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 4-5pm, while under 16s will be catered for following the sessions on the same nights.

However, Champ’s Camp is not being aimed solely for the young ones around town. Adult sessions will run on Wednesday nights at 6-7pm and Sunday nights at 7-8.30pm.

The first training session will be held at the leisure centre on Monday, where Charles Shepherd will be on hand to show off his champion’s belt.