A new boxing academy fronted by former world heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis is to launch in Leeds, West Yorkshire, on 24 September.

Leeds Positive Futures Lennox Lewis Boxing Academy will offer a 12-week training programme for young people aged between 12 and 16 years old who are not in education, employment or training. The programme will include an introduction to boxing techniques and coaching methods, as well as physical fitness and nutrition, which will enable participants to work towards a professional qualification.

Professional boxer Patrick Maxwell will form part of the academy team, which is part of the Positive Futures national community programme and will see successful candidates receive a Non Contact Preliminary Award ASDAN Sports and Fitness Award. Leeds City Council executive member for children's services Judith Blake said: "Leeds Positive Futures Lennox Lewis Boxing Academy gives young people from deprived areas of the City the opportunity to succeed by introducing them to a range of new activities which broadens their horizons and prevents them from becoming excluded from their communities."