A BOXING club is set to become the first business to move into The Northern Echo arena.

Darlington Boxing and Martial Arts Academy (DBMA) is preparing to make the move from its current home in Portland Place, Darlington, to a new gym at the Arena in Neasham Road.

After taking over the Arena earlier this year, Darlington Mowden Park Rugby Club announced it was planning to let a number of spaces inside the stadium to local businesses.

Paul Hamilton, owner of DBMA, said he had big plans for the future of the boxing club following the move.

“The new gym is almost four times the size of our old one and will be full of brand new equipment,” he said.

“There is much more parking at the arena which makes it easier for people to access.

“We are hoping to set up a healthy eating area and give advice and training to people who want to lose weight.

“The gym won’t just be for boxers, it will be for anyone who wants to eat well and get fit.

“We are taking it up another level and setting the bar even higher for gyms in Darlington."

Mr Hamilton is hoping to move into his new gym on Monday, February 18 and his current premises will remain open until then.

For more information visit boxingmartialartsacademy.co.uk