NINE martial artists from a club in Queensbury are appealing for financial help to get them to a world championships that is the “pinnacle” of their sport.

The team from Jason Murray Martial Arts School has qualified to represent England in the World Martial Kombat Federation competition in Malta in November.

Jason Murray said: “It is the absolute pinnacle for us - the highest level we can compete at.

“To represent our country at the world championships is a big deal.

“It would mean the world to us and the other members of the club.”

But to get there, the group - aged between 14 and 44 - must raise £7,281 to pay for things such as travel, accommodation, tournament fees, equipment, uniforms and tracksuits.

The club, which has more than 100 members and is based in Legends gym in Black Dyke Mills, held a family fun day in Northowram on Sunday and has a few other things lined up to help raise money.

Mr Murray, who will compete in three categories at the championships, said: “We have raised £3,000, so we are almost half way there.

“Every individual on the team is doing what they can to raise money themselves. But we still have a fair way to go.

“Anybody, or any businesses, that want to help out, we will give them something back, too.

“We are doing what we can in the club, but there is only so much we can do.”

The group - made up of Mr Murray, his son Caleb Murray, Alex Dickinson, Stephen Jack, Yvonne Jack, Harleen Kaur, Joshua Woodyatt, Mark Brook and Robert Rack - qualified for the competition after winning medals at the English tournament in May.

They will compete in various fighting categories.

“I am incredibly proud of them all,” said Mr Murray. “Everyone that went down to the England tournament managed to get a medal - no-one was left behind - so that is fantastic for a start.

“And for some it was the first time competing at this level.”

Caleb and Harleen competed at last year’s world championships - at the same venue in Malta - and won gold and silver medals, respectively.

“It is a very, very tough competition,” said Mr Murray. “It is a proper world championships with competitors from every continent.

“To actually take part is a great honour and a big challenge. “We came away with two medals last year and last year was the first year we competed at it.”

Anyone who can help the club in its quest to compete in Malta can contact Mr Murray on 07912 658042 or visit jmmas.com.