A HEALTH club chain has come to the aid of a would-be champion in offering free training facilities.

Tae Kwondo expert Steve Harbisher was hunting for a suitable venue to train for the world championships in South Korea in November when Middlesbrough's X4 health and fitness clubs stepped in.

Kelvin Hutton, health and fitness manager at the clubs, arranged for the 18-year-old to go through his strength, speed and endurance exercises at the Southlands Centre, Rainbow Leisure Centre, The Neptune or Clairville Stadium.

He said: "We were delighted to be able to help Steve in his preparations and wish him every success at the championships.

"X4 facilities are not just for top-class athletes like Steve, they're for everyone who wants to keep fit."

Mr Harbisher is hoping to improve on his recent third in the Junior World Games in South Korea.