Martial arts clubs aim to combat child abuse for NSPCC

The event will see clubs from Belfast, Lurgan and Coleraine come together in Sperrin Business Park to demonstrate three different styles of ‘Reality-based self-defence’ martial arts which teach people how to defend themselves in real life situations.

Instruction will be given by three key local instructors as well as the founder of Tactical Edge, Mark Davies, who is travelling from Scotland to teach at the event. Mark will be giving Tactical Edge instructing on the day along with Peter McClay, and Glyn Ashton will be teaching Krav Maga, with Neil Martin giving Onguard Combat Systems coaching.

Peter McClay from Causeway Combatives said: “We decided to organise this event to raise money for NSPCC Northern Ireland, because after the recent shocking stories about Jimmy Savile and Millie Martin in the news, as the father of a young child I felt I needed to do something to help. This is the first time we’ve done it, but we’re hoping to make it an annual event.”

The styles being demonstrated on the day - Tactical Edge, Krav Maga and Onguard Combat Systems - will be well known to people in the martial arts field, but are also fun and manageable for those with no previous experience.

Clare Galbraith from NSPCC Northern Ireland said: “We are delighted that NSPCC will be benefiting from this event. Funds raised will help run NSPCC services for children and families in Northern Ireland, including ChildLine, the free 24 hour helpline for children and young people in need of advice, support for young witnesses in criminal trials, and help for those who have experienced abuse.”

Participants are asked to raise £50 minimum sponsorship, and in return they will receive a full day of training and demos from 11am -5pm, as well as a free t-shirt and BBQ with prizes and a raffle in the Railway Arms, Coleraine at the end of the day. Places are limited, and the event is for adults only. To book or for more information, contact Peter McClay on 07882498001.