Tobie Vermeire, who co-founded Next Gen Amateur Boxing Club (ABC) at the Bridge Street Sports Centre in Leominster alongside head coach Luke Jones, stressed that he has "no qualms" with McDonald's opening in the town and recognised the jobs it could create.

However, the former professional fighter said his own experiences with unhealthy eating had shown the importance of balance and maintaining healthy lifestyles.

"McDonald's is a treat rather than a staple. It will be good for getting jobs in the town but it's not necessarily a replacement for healthier options," said Mr Vermeire.

"People should think of it as a treat rather than a daily occurrence."

The boxer, who previously competed professionally after making his debut in 2023 and appearing on Sky Sports cards, said he understands the impact excessive fast-food consumption can have.

Back in 2020, Mr Vermeire weighed 26 stone before deciding to completely overhaul his lifestyle.

"I used to abuse fast food and was very unhealthy," he said.

"I lost 12 stone in 12 months and went on to fight as a professional boxer. I know the detriment fast food can have if it's abused.

Mr Vermeire's comments come as Next Gen Amateur Boxing Club continues to establish itself in Leominster after opening just over three months ago.

The club was launched by Mr Vermeire and experienced coach Luke Jones with the aim of creating a pathway into boxing for people of all ages and abilities.

"We saw boxing needed to be promoted in the community," he said.

"We're giving another pathway for people to live healthier lives."

The gym offers boxing, fitness and boxercise classes, welcoming participants from as young as four through to people in their seventies.

During the summer, the club offered free boxing sessions for under-16s to encourage young people into the sport and plans to run similar sessions during the October half-term break.

Mr Vermeire added that while economic benefits from major chains are important, residents living near the proposed restaurant could have concerns about issues such as litter, odours and anti-social behaviour.

Meanwhile, the club continues to invest in coaching standards. Head coach Luke Jones was recently selected as one of only 16 coaches in the UK, and one of just three from the Midlands, to take part in England Boxing's prestigious Five Pillars of Performance course in Sheffield.

The programme allowed coaches to learn from GB Boxing staff and leading coaches from across the country, with the knowledge now being brought back to benefit local boxers in Herefordshire.

For Mr Vermeire, the mission remains simple: helping local people improve their health and fitness while providing opportunities in the sport he believes can change lives.