Uproar over bid to hold boxing at home of Chelsea Pensioners

THE Royal Hospital Chelsea - home to the Chelsea Pensioners - has been accused of "rampant commercialisation" after unveiling plans to hold boxing matches in its grounds.

- Robert Dex

The historic site, which first opened its doors in 1692 and is home to about 300 retired soldiers, already has licences from Kensington and Chelsea council allowing it to put on live music until midnight 30 days a year. It can also sell alcohol on its main site, including its private grounds at Burton's Court.

Members of the council's licensing sub-committee will decide on Thursday whether to grant a new licence combining the previous conditions but also allowing the hospital to stage "boxing or wrestling" between the hours of 10am to 11pm.