Weds 5th March 2025
Tom is a passionate believer in the benefit of physical fitness for one’s wellbeing. As a sufferer of PTSD he knows that it helps him to keep the symptoms under control. This is one of the reasons he devotes so much time and energy to making Tenterden Boxing Club a place where all can go to improve their fitness and wellbeing.
Tom’s aspirations as a childhood footballer good enough to play for Liverpool Boys didn’t work out, but joining the army at 17 provided him with a long career in the forces. At first he was in the Irish Guards which included multiple tours of Northern Ireland and Bosnia, in addition to an ongoing struggle with PTSD. A 5 year break from the army, working in security for Asda was unfulfilling, and he rejoined the Royal Engineers as a commissioned officer. It was there his desire to give back grew, setting up the Blanchard Trophy to remember a fallen colleague and raise funds for worthy causes.
He started the London Military Boxing Club in 2006, which trained many excellent boxers including current world champion Ellie Scotney. This road led to Tom becoming head coach at Tenterden Boxing Club, which boasts nearly 50 members many of whom do not box, but rather utilise the club and training for all-round fitness or to keep the effects of Parkinsons at bay.
TBC is a valued resource for many people, but requires help to maintain their building, replace equipment and more. If you or anyone can provide physical or financial assistance then please get in touch with Tom.