BRITISH Business Bank has named a man who turned a disused Crediton building into a boxing gym as its 2024 South West ambassador for its Start Up Loans programme. 

Army veteran Jamie Parker took out a Start Up Loan of £15,000 via X-Forces Enterprise this year to start the business and launched his own community crowdfunding appeal.  

He used the loan to help transform the space on Mill Street and buy equipment such as weights, the boxing ring and running machines.  

“I’m thrilled to be representing Start Up Loans as their South West ambassador and I hope to encourage other small businesses and entrepreneurs with an idea to make use of the wonderful opportunity that the Start Up Loans programme provides,” Mr Parker said. 

“It’s been quite a journey transforming this derelict building into a business and community space that we can be proud of.” 

The Start Up Loans programme provides access to pre-and-post loan support to help applicants develop a business plan, fixed-interest first and second loans of up to £25,000 to help recipients start or grow their business, and mentoring support on running a business. 

“The process of getting financial support from the programme was very smooth and the help with the business plan was invaluable, and the level of community support has been amazing,” Mr Parker continued. 

“This isn’t just a boxing gym, it’s a community space that can provide opportunity. 

“We’re working with wellbeing services in the area to help turn this into a community hub which can help people who have lost their way in life.” 

Louise McCoy, Commercial Managing Director of Small Business Lending at British Business Bank, said: “I am delighted to welcome Jamie Parker, owner of Bang Bang Boxing, as the new ambassador for the South West.  

“He embodies the determination and drive that is required of a business owner in the current climate.  

“I know that Jamie will inspire others to follow their dream of becoming a business owner and I am very much looking forward to working with him and helping to share his inspiring story.”   

Ren Kapur MBE, CEO of X-Forces Enterprise, said: “Jamie Parker is a powerful example of the way veterans continue to serve their communities after their military careers and reflects the diversity of organisations that are supported with Start Up Loans through X-Forces Enterprise, as the official Business Support Partner [of the programme] for the Armed Forces community.” 

The Bang Bang Boxing Gym opened in Crediton in May. It offers competitive boxing training as well as fitness classes for all ages including over 50s and kids’ boxercise sessions (called “Little Sluggers” and “Junior Jabbers”), circuit training, self-defence classes and family fun classes on Saturdays.