WORLD-class martial arts champions will be demonstrating their skills today (Saturday).
The Sunderland International Festival of Martial Arts aims to showcase the high-energy drama of disciplines such as judo, aikido and jujitsu, while raising funds for Cancer Research UK.
Event organiser Peter Seth, 53, who has trained with Hollywood action hero and martial arts expert Stephen Seagal, said the festival was a great chance for people to see martial arts champions in action and perhaps try one of the sports, under supervision.
North-East talent on show at the event includes brother and sister David Reavely and Angela Brown, of Sunderland, who hold the silver medal from the World Judo Championships held in Tokyo and are former World Master Kata Champions.
Also appearing will be Dale Fenwick, also from Sunderland, bronze medallist at the Tokyo championships, and the reigning Kickboxing Open World Champion and Pro-European Champion, Paul Greaves, of Hylton Castle.
Mr Seth, a black belt who has been teaching aikido for more than 25 years, said: "The festival will highlight the wealth of talent in the North-East and may encourage people who have been impressed by the skill of movie stars like Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan to join a local club."
It is at Seaburn Leisure Centre, from 11am to 4pm.
Tickets are £3.50 for adults and £2 for concessions.
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