Let's Get Behind Our Local Hero! (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Let's Get Behind Our Local Hero!

August 12, 2005 12:00 AM

Liberal Democrat Cllr Javaid Akhtar (Gipton & Harehills) has appealed for support for one of Leeds' very own sporting hero's, Nathan Bloor. Nathan, who hails from Gipton, East Leeds is set to compete in this year's Karate World Championships representing England in both Kata and free style fighting. Yet Nathan's shot at competing in this year's competition in Niagara Falls, Canada is in doubt due to financial constraints. The cost of the trip is estimated at £2,500, with £675 needed for the air fare alone. Such a costly sum is currently beyond the Bloor families reach.

Councillor Akhtar said "Nathan's plight is one that deserves to be drawn to the attention of the people of Leeds, particularly our thriving business community. A local lad from a working class background has unfortunately been priced out of an amazing opportunity to represent his country overseas. I appeal to those people who wish to sponsor such a fine ambassador our city's youth to come forward and help, no matter what the contribution."

Notes to the Editor:

• Nathan is trying to acquire sponsorship for his trip to cover estimated costs of £2,500. Nathan is under 18 and thus his father (John) has to accompany him abroad, doubling the price of the trip. Unfortunately due to his mother (Joan) being registered disabled and his father her full time carer the Bloor family income is severely restricted.

• Currently a second dan black belt in Shotokan Karate, Nathan has represented his country for the past four years and has two bronze medals to his name.

• Studying hard for his A - levels at Lawnswood High School, Nathan balances his studies with a rigorous training programme at St Richards Church, Leeds 14.

• The W.K.A (World Karate Association) World Championships will take place from 4th to 12th November 2005.

• http://www.wka.co.uk/canada/

• Any potential sponsors should contact:

Peter Lewis (World Vice President)

World Karate Association

109 Urban Road

Sale

Cheshire

M33 1TS

Email: pwlewis@btconnect.com Telephone: (0161) 969 0399 or 07798522449 (m)

The views in this Press Release are those of the Liberal Democrat Council Group, and not necessarily those of Leeds City Council, its Officers or of the Liberal Democrat Party.