A CHAMPION fighter hopes to clinch a world title.

Steven Harbisher, 18, of Marton, Middlesbrough, won a series of bouts at Darlington's Dolphin Centre to become the UK's top tae kwon do fighter for his weight.

Along with a medal and a certificate, he earned a place at the Senior World Games, in November.

Mr Harbisher, who works for Cleveland Police in the force's photographic studio, has been involved in the sport since he was four, becoming a black belt at nine.

"The biggest fight now is to raise the money to go to Korea towards the end of October, for the fights at the beginning of November," he said.

Mr Harbisher has to raise £2,000 for his flight, accommodation and expenses. To help him generate it, he is doing a sponsored bike ride, and is hoping industries, organisations and people will make donations.

Anyone willing to sponsor Mr Harbisher is asked to contact (01642) 301771