Martial arts kids from Mansfield ready to take on the world

Now they would like to hear from individuals, companies or organisations interested in sponsoring them and helping to support their dream trip.

The athletes are well into their training preparations for the November championships, which are run by the World Martial Kombat Federation (WMKF).

And their success is another feather in the cap for the unique PBA (Personal Best Academy), which is based on Newgate Lane and runs progreammes designed exclusively for children aged four to 16.

However, in martial arts, the students have to regularly pay for their own training, equipment, accommodation and travel expenses for the major events they compete in, so it can prove to be a very expensive business for the parents and families involved.

A spokeswoman for PBA Kidz said: “The team have been working hard with their personal sponsorship and fundraising goals, as well as their traning regimes.

“But they would absolutely appreciate any donations, big or small, that they can put towards their fundraising total. This would allow them to cover the necessary travel and accommodation expenses to compete in Malta.”

The 20 students from the Mansfield academy, all aged six to 16, who have been picked for England are: Chloe Adcock, Courtney Marke, Frankie Ulyatt, Maisie Ulyatt, Jack Doherty, Millie Doherty, Abigail Taylor, Mareks Koreskovs, Lia Morley, Elisha Morley, Liam Mahan, Olivia Stroughton, Bradley Smith, Riley O’Callaghan, Louis Holloway, Lucia Light, Charlie George, Sophie George, Joshua Gascoyne and Tyler Brazier-Hadfield.

The squad showed off their skills abnd abilities in a special guest appearance during half-time of Mansfield town’s League Two match against Wycombe Wanderers at the One Call Stadium on Saturday .

“They were all excited and proud to showcase their talents for the supporters,” added the PBA Kidz spokeswoman. “Now they would love some support from the local community to turn their dreams into a reality.”