STOKE Heath martial artist Tommy Walker stormed to success in the San Shou National Hardcore Event in London on Saturday.

As a result of his fight, Tommy will now train with the British Council for Chinese Martial Arts with a view to competing in the next Olympics, where San Shou will be an event. He may also consider fighting on the professional circuit.

Tommy was the first fighter from Lion's Claw Kung Fu School to take part in one of these events.

His performance -- taken from the Worcester-based school's style of Kung Fu -- means they have been invited to enter a team at the next event.

These events attract a large crowd in a 'gladiator' style arena.

San Shou is fought on a raised platform with two opponents. It incorporates all martial arts including kung fu, karate, tae kwon do, judo, jujitsu, boxing and grappling.

The object of the fight is to knock out or remove your opponent from the platform, or win on points. It is a full contact fight which can be brutal, and all contestants are brave.

Lion's Claw Kung Fu School is growing rapidly and meet at South Bromsgrove High School's dance studio on Wednesday night's between 6.30pm and 8pm.

Anyone who wants to learn Kung Fu is welcome to go along.

For more information, contact Ian Walker on (01527) 577261.