Teenager Jayden Holden steps into the ring for the first time this weekend - just eight weeks after taking up boxing.

The 15-year-old from Rainham will be part of a stacked fight card for Kent Charity Boxing’s latest show, taking place at the Lordswood Leisure Centre on Sunday.

KCB run eight weeks of free training sessions at the Kent Gloves Gym every Saturday and Sunday between 3pm and 5pm for men and women from aged nine upwards. It’s a chance for beginners to get fit and those that fancy it can get in the ring, too.

Holden, a pupil at the Howard School, went along with a friend to see what the hype was about and he’s glad he did.

The youngster said: “I watched boxing a lot with my dad when I was younger and he used to box himself. I always enjoyed watching but never had the confidence to do it.

“I found out about Kent Charity Boxing, a few of my pals told me it was a good gym and I decided to try it out. It’s brilliant, I love it.

“The trainers are amazing, it is like a family there. It’s fight week and this is the eighth week I’ve been doing it. I hadn’t done any before.

“As well as my trainers, my dad is always there to tell me how I can improve, what I need to do.

“I can’t wait. I am confident, I haven’t really got any nerves. I’ve got loads of friends coming, my best mate Leo started boxing with me as well but I go first, he’s hopefully fighting in June.

“I hope to get some experience out of it, hopefully get the win, but I am not too worried about the result, it’s going to be a great experience.

“My favourite boxer who I look up to is probably Dmitry Bivol. I like his style and the way he fights. We fight similar ways, both backfoot fighters.

“I’d recommend this to anyone, at any level, from no experience to as much experience as you can get. They are amazing people at the gym, they know what they are doing and the main priority is your safety as well.”

You can get more details of Kent Charity Boxing and sign up on their Facebook page.

Training is from coaches Darren Clayton, Dave Brown, Wes Hammell and Kayden Garlinge. Sponsors include KGM Fire & Security Distribution Ltd and Building Better Construction Specialists.

Coach Clayton was also keen to thank the gyms for their help, including Al Stevens from TKO Academy Ashford & Maidstone, Buffalo Boxing’s Craig Douglin and Chris at Double J Boxing.