Malton martial arts instructor's free lessons pledge for families in need

Tony Dias, a former British and world title holder, runs a martial arts college in Malton

A martial arts instructor has pledged free classes and life memberships to families in need this Christmas.

Tony Dias, 58, from Malton, North Yorkshire, said he wanted his festive gift to bring joy to members of the local community.

Mr Dias runs United Martial Arts College, which has produced junior and adult world champions.

He said: "Christmas can be a hard time for people. It's about giving - and not a lot of people give."

The aim was to offer free memberships to families who might not otherwise be able to afford activities outside the home, Mr Dias said.

"Martial arts isn't my business, it's my passion," he added.

Mr Dias said he hoped to give something back to the local community this Christmas by offering free lessons

It is the second time the instructor, who won British and world titles during his career, has made the offer, after first pledging free classes in 2020.

That offer soon proved its worth, he said.

"I did have a young lad who was from a family of three or four and all the children trained," he said.

"I gave them a couple of places free anyway, but one time, the mum messaged to say they couldn't really afford it anymore.

"I told her not to worry about paying - and two years later, the lad won a world title."

Mr Dias said for those taking part in martial arts, the very act of learning such a skill often helped them beyond the four walls of the college.

"Martial arts are great - and it's not just for children but for all ages," he said.

"It can give young people focus and help with confidence building."