A HELENSBURGH Taekwondo coach has been recognised as one of the UK’s leading martial artists at a recent award event.

Steven McLaren received the honour at the UK Martial Arts Awards, and was inducted to the UK Martial Arts Hall of Fame at the awards dinner at the National Brewery Centre in Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire.

The award for his continued support and services to martial arts in the UK was made by the renowned owner of Martial Arts Illustrated magazine, Bob Sykes.

The popular coach, who has been teaching in the Helensburgh area for more than 15 years, has been inundated with messages of congratulations from students and parents since the award.

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“I was stunned when I first got the letter," Steven said.

"Being inducted to the UK Hall of Fame is such an achievement, and I’ve been completely blown away by everyone’s support.

“As far as I’m concerned, this award isn’t just for me. It’s for my dad, who’s my own personal superhero, and for everyone who is part of the club – coaches, students and parents. Thank you!”

Steven is a sixth Dan black belt in Taekwondo.

He began his journey in martial arts at the age of nine, before taking up Taekwondo – which he has been practising for over 20 years.

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He has competed for Scotland at both European and World Championship levels, and is a coach for the Scottish national team.

Steven has been teaching in the Helensburgh area for 18 years, both as Steven Mclaren Martial Arts (SMMA) and as part of the Active Schools programme for Glasgow, Argyll and Bute and Clackmannanshire.

He runs classes for adults and children in Taekwondo, kickboxing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu at Peak Performance in James Street, Helensburgh.

SMMA can be contacted through their Facebook page.

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