He may be most commonly recognised as a boxer, but during National Apprenticeship Week Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton was being praised for his commitment to training rather than his achievements in the ring.

Ricky, who employs eleven apprentices in partnership with Trafford College, is the owner of Hatton Health and Fitness in Hyde.

During the week, he was visited by Trafford College principal Sir Bill Moorcroft to personally recognise the club’s commitment to training.

Ricky said: “Our strong belief is people come to gyms to interact with the staff and fellow members, not to enter a cold place where you pay a lot and get little customer care.

“Our apprentices are living proof that our belief in customer care and interaction with members is absolutely the right path to continue to follow.”

Sir Moorcroft added: “It has been great to visit Hatton’s Health and Fitness and speak to the apprentices in their workplace.

“The college is committed to supporting employers who take on apprentices, and it’s great to see a business that is thriving from it.”