A CHAMPION martial arts fighter visited an Exmouth training centre to carry out an informative seminar. Ian Freeman, nicknamed the machine , attended Lions Den, in Pound Lane, on Sunday, October 25, to pass on tips and take part in a question and answer

A CHAMPION martial arts fighter visited an Exmouth training centre to carry out an informative seminar.

Ian Freeman, nicknamed 'the machine', attended Lions Den, in Pound Lane, on Sunday, October 25, to pass on tips and take part in a question and answer session.

The 43-year-old heaped praise on the standard of the centre which has recently had a full size training cage fitted.

Meanwhile, eight fighters from Lions Den are preparing to compete in a martial arts event, Strength & Honour 7, to be held at Exmouth Pavilions on Saturday, November 7.

Because the event takes place during remembrance weekend, a number of Royal Marines will be guests of honour.

Lions Den owner, Dave Matthews, a former Grenadier Guardsman, said he and his wife, Alison, had established a good relationship with the marines.

He said: "Alison and I have been in Exmouth for over five years and have built great friendships with the Royal Marines. We have many who train with us regularly.

"Mixed martial arts is the fastest growing sport in the world and is hugely popular within the forces community.

"You don't have to make a huge song and dance about things - you just have to do it!'

Tickets for the Strength & Honour 7 event are available from Lions Den or the Exmouth Pavilion box office. For more information, visit the following website at: www.lionsdenuk.co.uk