REDDITCH Community Amateur Boxing Club welcomed a special guest to the Matchborough-based gym last week.

Andy Howson, a five-time Muay Thai world champion, gave a two-hour seminar to members, local enthusiasts and clubs further afield.

Just over 30 people attended the course, which included a training class in some of the special techniques that have helped Howson become a multi-world champion.

The packed gym was given first-hand experience with many participants able to work directly with the star and some even got to spar briefly with fighter.

Andy ‘The Punisher’ Howson, as he is known in the ring, brought his five world title belts, which created lots of photo opportunities for his fans.

One of the belts is the WBC version, which comes under the same organisation as the boxing counterparts with the likes of Floyd Mayweather who will be vacating his title, after recently retiring from the sport.

He said: “What a fantastic facility to have in Redditch. The set up is a really well thought up and I’d be delighted to come again to expand on what we’ve already covered.”

James Whiston, the head coach that organised the day, confirmed that the club are already looking at a follow up date early in the New Year. He added: “I was really delighted on how the seminar went and pleased with the great response in numbers coming to join in on this.

“All the money raised by the club will go straight back into Redditch Community Amateur Boxing Club to pay for equipment for the MMA, Thai Boxing and Jiu Jitsu side of the gym.”

Anyone that has an interest in joining the community-based club or wants to find out more about Howson’s return visit, can contact Redditch Community Amateur Boxing Club by telephone on 01527 526917.