82-year old ex-boxer returns to ring from Slough care home

Photos from Care UK. Photo credit: Tony Kershaw SWNS

An 82-year old care home resident from Slough has made a surprise return to the boxing ring.

Jimmy Mitchell, who lives at Oak House in Wexham Road, returned to the ring after expressing his wish to return to the sport nearly 60 years since his retirement.

Born in Wandsworth in London, Jimmy started boxing at the age of 10 and made his debut in the National Sporting Club in Piccadilly in May 1962 against Dave Burland.

He competed in the national super light division from 1962 until 1966, racking up fifteen wins, including 12 knockouts.

His matches took place in venues across London, and once took him across the pond in February 1965 for a match against Denny Stiletto in Medina in Washington State, USA.

Jimmy retired from the sport in 1966 but always wanted to return to the ring and pass on his knowledge to the next generation.

After learning about his time spent as a boxer in the 1960s, and his wish to get back in the ring, the Oak House team didn’t want Jimmy to hang up his gloves just yet, and planned a surprise outing to Thames Valley Athletics Centre in Pococks Lane, Windsor.

On the day, Jimmy, along with team members, travelled to the gym where they were met by Kaileb Appleton, the gym instructor and his mixed level class.

During the class, Jimmy loved sharing his stories and answering questions about his time as a competitive boxer.

He said: “The best part of the visit was sharing my expertise and hearing about their dreams of becoming professional and to see those who just love the mental and physical fitness it gives.

“It feels so unreal to be a part of the sport again, I did not think at my age I would have to chance to box again. My advice to anybody in the ring would be to always think about your opponent's next move.”

The visit was part of Care UK’s ‘Wishing Tree’ Initiative, which encourages residents to reconnect with a past hobby or try something completely new.

Agnieszka Klimkowicz-Buda, home manager at Oak House, said: “We were delighted to create a memorable afternoon for Jimmy, which fulfilled his passion for boxing while providing an opportunity to reminisce on his time spent in the ring. It was fantastic to surprise him and see what a wonderful time he had.

“The team were thrilled that we were able to organise this for Jimmy and that he could pass on his skills to the next generation of boxers.”