Boxing experience is ‘one of the best days of my life’ for North Devon youngster

For young adults at Tyspane Care Home, person centre care is crucially important in supporting their mental wellbeing, and by offering guidance to help them create new aspirations and goals they feel included, represented, and in control of their own destiny. 

Sean, one of they young adults, moved to Tyspane Care Home in July 2025, and with help and support, from Babs Spear (Head of Department, Physiotherapy) started a person-centred training programme to increase his physical and mental wellbeing, and create new aspirations and goals.

Part of this programme involved boxing; adaptive boxing, is a sport that’s inclusive and tailored to individuals with diverse abilities. For Sean, one of his new goals came true. Sean joined community, professionals and professional boxing champion, Billy Stanbury at the opening of Braunton Boxing Academy, The Old Tiki Factory, Velator.

Sean was welcomed with open arms and made to feel part of something special, coaches engaged with him and offered him personal guidance and a chance to spa with Lee Chappell was a dream come true for Sean. The opening of the new boxing gym was packed with local community, professional coaches and local businesses.

Lloyd Chappell (Manager of Braunton Boxing Gym) stated: “We are grateful to all those who made this possible, it is just amazing how supportive the local community have been. One of the aims for Braunton Boxing Gym is to inspire the younger generations.”

Lee Chappell (Coach and Son of Lloyd Chappell) added: “It would be a privilege to coach Sean, on a one-to-one basis, as long as Babs Spear coaches me!”

Sean replied: “It has been one of the best days of my life, thank you.”

Young Bideford boxer Rocky Grigg had the privilege of training with Lee and Andrew Selby at their gym in Barry, Wales. The brothers are two of the finest boxers to come out of Britain. Lee Selby was World Champion in the pro ranks whilst Andrew won a British Title but was known as one of our leading amateurs winning Silver at the World Championships.

They put Grigg through his paces in an intensive training session which can only benefit the 16 year-old prospect, who is preparing for the NAGBC Championships next month.