YOUNGSTERS have been given the chance to become a karate black belt thanks to a Kidlington martial arts club's new scholarship.

Lee Ashman and his wife, Leyla, 32, manage Freestyle Martial Arts Kidlington and have decided to offer free lessons to one lucky beginner who might now otherwise have the opportunity to earn a black belt.

The club, in Benmead Road, is expecting to move premises next month to host its 25 members at a larger hall in Gosford School.

The family-friendly training centre runs twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Mr Ashman, who runs the club part-time and works as a driver at Volkswagen, said learning martial arts has changed his life.

He said: “We got into martial arts because my son had juvenile arthritis in five joints, and we were told it would help strengthen his muscles."

Six years later, the family of four, who initially went along to watch Adam, 13, all now have their black belts.

The scholarship will offer one local child a rare opportunity to train from beginner to black belt, which will take at least three years.

The 40 year olds aid: “We are looking for someone between the ages of five and 15 who really deserves the chance and opportunity to train with us and earn their black belt.

“This could be someone who works extra hard at school, helps out in their local community or does a lot for charity.

“It could also be someone who may be having a tough time and needs to build self-confidence.

“We want people to nominate somebody they think deserves the scholarship.”

He also recommends martial arts for all ages saying: “It’s really good for fitness, self confidence and discipline, which help children adjust to adult life.

"It also has amazing benefits for health and is something completely different than just going to the gym.”

Nominations open today and close on June 1.

To nominate email kidlington@freestylemartialarts.com with the nominees name and why you think they deserve the scholarship.