TWO Bradford brothers, who teach taekwondo in the city six days a week, have received a place in Martial Arts Illustrated's (MAI) Hall of Fame.

Undercliffe pair Mohammed Zamoord and Mohammed Wahed, who tutor at Manningham Sports Centre, The Thornbury Centre and Grange Interlink Community Centre, were invited to the MAI awards evening at the National Brewery Centre in Burton upon Trent.

The national prize presentation, which covered all styles and was hosted by Bob Sykes – editor of the country's leading martial arts magazine Martial Arts Illustrated – honoured the duo for their contributions to teaching taekwondo in their local communities – in Batley and Dewsbury, as well as Bradford.

Zamoord said: "There is a great sense of achievement. We have been involved in martial arts for almost 20 years, although that time has flown by, and to get this type of national recognition is amazing.

"We were fortunate we trained with the best, becoming national taekwondo champions and winning titles in Wales, Scotland, England – and particularly the north of England – many times over.

"We carried on our success by teaching our skills to youths and passing on our knowledge to students who have been part of our organisation – the United Martial Arts Academy.

"I believe we have been positive role models to the children we have had the opportunity to teach, helping them at a crucial time in their lives."

Wahed added: "It was a huge privilege and an honour to be among such highly-talented people from the martial arts community in Great Britain.

"We caught up with some old friends and had a wonderful evening. Richard Bustillo, a student of Bruce Lee, said this type of event didn't happen many years ago.

"People from different martial arts would not talk to one another and he said it was great for him to see the martial arts community in the UK getting on and respecting and celebrating together, whether it be judo, karate, taekwondo, MMA or Aikido.

"Taekwondo not only benefits your health and fitness, it also builds your confidence, increases your self-esteem and develops self-control. For some people, it is a way of life."

Bustillo is one of the few remaining students who was taught by legendary martial arts movie star Lee and Chris Crudelli, who presented the BBC documentary Mind, Body & Kick Ass Moves, which aired in over 109 countries.

Zam revealed: "We (Wahed and I) are currently spearheading our new project, Support Taekwondo, funded by the Big Lottery Fund, kicking off next month.

"This project is aimed to help young children and adults in Bradford with learning, behavioural and emotional difficulties.

"If anyone is interested in getting involved or know of anyone who may benefit, please do get in touch. Taekwondo can be life-changing by helping young children and adults in their cognitive development."

For further information or to get involved, contact Zam on 07852-897509 or e-mail the brothers on info@unitedmartialart.co.uk.