A Saltcoats karate sensation has received £1,000 as part of a year-long sponsorship from Cunninghame Housing Association.

Janet Strang, chairperson of the association presented a cheque to Aria Pascual. The cash boost will help Aria with funding for competing in the JKS World Champions in Ireland, British International Championships in Ravenscraig in September, Internal Championships in Poland, and the World Championships in Chile in October 2019.

Janet Strang said: “The association is delighted to be able to support people in achieving their ambitions”

Frank Sweeney, chief executive of Cunninghame Housing Association, added: “Over the past 10-15 years we have supported numerous young people to help them to be successful in their chosen sport.”

The funding for the initiative came from the association’s Making Our Communities Better Place Fund which is operating from April 1, 2019 until March 31, 2020.

Any local groups or individuals interested in submitting an application for funding shouldcontact Karlin Mclaughlan or Elaine Nimmo at Cunninghame Housing Association on 01294 606005.