Leif, 18, is a fully qualified instructor in Thai Boxing, a Kru grade and a multi Junior World Champion and an Adult World Champion.

He will head the centre's new Black Falcon Thai class, which will be sponsored by safety equipment manufacturer KO Pro.

The class will be specifically designed to cater for younger students aged five to 16.

Gym owner Cris Janson-Piers said: "Special attention will be paid to all safety aspects, and Leif and his assistants are fully insured and qualified."

"The gym is fully equipped and features a ring, bags, speedballs, thai pads, focus mitts and much more."

"The classes are scheduled to start at the end of July."

Chief instructor Kerry-Louise Norbury added: "Leif will be a great addition to the team."

"I have known and trained with him over the last two years and he has valuable skills to pass on."

"He's a bright young instructor who will bring a fresh way of teaching to our members. Everyone is in for a real treat."

The academy already has six individual styles of martial arts which are taught from their Victoria Street training venue.

Anyone wanting to start in these classes are advised to enrol now by ringing Cris on 07973 748907.