Martial arts star self-funds site

Parents are encouraged to take part in the sessions at the new centre

A former world martial arts champion from Kent who found himself with nowhere to train has founded his own karate centre.

Nathan Marsh, and his wife Diane, re-mortgaged their home to raise the £250,000 needed to build the centre in Lordswood, Chatham.

The martial arts school also teaches skills such as leadership and respect.

"My wife and I had a dream of building a full-time school dedicated to what we do," Mr Marsh said.

"We took the decision to become full-time martial artists six years ago.

'Mums and dads'

"We took the plunge... and put our own house up as security for the school, and we're here for the next 20 years."

Whole families are encouraged to come along to the sessions.

"We've moved away from how martial arts used to be, and we do get loads and loads of families training," said Mrs Marsh.

"It's nice that mums and dads can do something with their children as well."