War Boxing Academy in Warminster receives community support after break-in

A community-run gym in Warminster, is recovering from a recent break-in, with substantial support pouring in from local businesses, parents, and boxers.

War Boxing Academy, located on Silver Street, has been a hub for boxing enthusiasts since its opening in April 2025. The recent theft has posed challenges for the grassroots organisation.

During the break-in on 7 October, around £2000 worth of gym equipment and power tools were stolen.

Chris Darker, the head coach at the gym, said: "It's horrible to be broken into. You know, they're not stealing from a big business. You know, you're stealing from a small community run gym.

"It's not a lot of money that they've taken, but it does have sort of long lasting impacts, not on a business, on effectively a small organisation that's just trying to do some good in the community."

According to Chris, the break-in will have a lasting effect on the gym, which he says manages tight budgets and invests any money that comes in, back into gym. And, their plans to expand their programmes have been set back.

But Chris, has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the gym's community. He said: "We've had lots of parents, boxers and local businesses gather support, whether it was to sort of spread awareness or donate equipment."

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