27/10/2008

: Brent celebrates boxer's success

The Mayor of Brent, Cllr Ralph Fox, has congratulated local boxer James 'Chunky' DeGale after he fought his way to Great Britain's 19th gold medal at the Olympic Games.

The Harlesden fighter beat middleweight rival Cuban Emilio Correa in Beijing.

Cllr Fox said: "On behalf of Brent Council and the people of the borough, I congratulate James DeGale. He has shown huge determination and skill to achieve something really special.

"It makes me proud that someone from Brent has won a gold medal at the Olympic Games. I am sure James' achievement will be an inspiration for our local young people to make the most of their sporting talents as London gets ready to host the 2012 Games.

"And I know we will all be watching his future boxing career with great interest and cheering him on. Well done, James!"

Brent's Larry Achike also competed in the Games, coming seventh in the triple jump.

Sporting opportunities in Brent

Brent Council is working to encourage local people to get more active, more often through its Get Active campaign. If you are inspired by James DeGale's

achievements, the borough offers a wealth of sporting opportunities.

Have a go at sport for free during the sports club taster fortnight.

Check the council's sports club directory for details of clubs from athletics to volleyball.

For more details on the variety of sports in the borough, including how children and pensioners can swim for free, school holiday activities and dance classes, see our Sports section .