AMIR Khan's new community boxing gym in Bolton was praised by Baroness Morris of Bolton during a House of Lords debate on the sport.

The Gloves gym in Prince Street, Halliwell, which will help youngsters take up boxing and keep fit, was officially opened by Tory leader David Cameron earlier this month.

Trish Morris, the Conservative shadow Minister for Children, Schools and families, praised Olympic silver medallist Amir's initiative during a debate on whether boxing should be added to the school physical education curriculum.

Baroness Morris called on Lord Andrew Adonis, Parliamentary Under-secretary for Schools and Learners, to join her in "acknowledging and celebrating the role played by individuals such as Amir in giving young people the sense of self-worth that comes from sport and outdoor activities".

Lord Adonis said: "Young sportsmen such as Amir Khan are great role models for our young people."