THE mum of a boxing prodigy diagnosed with autism has said his recent head shave was to raise money for his gym – and stop nagging over his hair.

Archie Hughes took part in the head shave last week as part of his determination to raise £1,300 for the Fort Boxing Gym, on the Waymills Estate, where he trains.

Lucy Hughes said her son received his diagnosis, with ADHD, and has now settled into a way of life where he is happy academically and working hard in the gym.

OTHER NEWS: 

She said: “To understand Archie you would need to know some key things about him.

"Born 10 weeks premature at a weight of just 4lb 1oz, he has had to fight since day one.

“His school life was no more straight forward and he found himself excluded from mainstream school while I tried to get him diagnosed with autism and ADHD which took a great deal of time.

“Having finally got his diagnosis he then found the help he really needed academically at an amazing ASD school in Chester where he came on leaps and bounds and now couldn’t be happier.

Whitchurch Herald: Dan Bailey shaves Archie's hair at the club. Dan Bailey shaves Archie's hair at the club. (Image: Fort Boxing Club.)

“He has always wanted a hobby he could really get into and finding Fort Boxing has truly changed his outlook on life, not to mention the way he conducts himself.

“Boxing has taught him discipline and helped him stay calm in stressful situations – something which wouldn’t have happened before.

“Archie’s boxing journey started six months ago and with the support and structure boxing offers, he has been able to attend a mainstream activity three times a week ever since.

“Archie has now to raise £1,300 for his gym that he loves so much.

“While trying to think of ways he could do so came up with an ingenious idea which would not only benefit his gym, but please his family and stop their nagging about his hair.

“Archie has been growing his hair for a number of months now, to the point he has to wear a headband while boxing to keep it free from his eyes and a sponsored shave solved both issues.”

Get in touch

Share your views on this story by sending a letter to the editor. To get in touch email news@whitchurchherald.co.uk, or fill in the form on this section of our website.

Lucy added that Fort Boxing Club owner Daniel Bailey and his coaches have helped her son in dealing with his life.

She added: “We can’t thank you Dan and Fort Boxing for transforming Archie.”

For more information about the club, head to https://thefortboxingclub.co.uk/