Girl who took up kickboxing after being bullied becomes British champion

An eight-year-old girl has become a British kickboxing champion just two years after taking up the sport because she was being bullied at school.

Kiya Williams had to move schools after being picked on and her confidence was at rock bottom.

Her worried mum Rebecca Hunter signed her up for junior kickboxing classes in a bid to get her spark back – and the little fighter excelled.

Kiya, who has a blue belt in the sport, recently competed in the British Championships where she won two gold medals and three silvers for her age group.

Her impressive performance at the competition in Solihull, West Midlands, earned her a place in the England team for the world championships in France in September.

Proud Rebecca, from Redruth, Cornwall, said: “Kiya had problems with bullies at her previous school.

“So two years ago we took her to the kickboxing class run by the Byrne Black Belt Academy to try and boost her confidence.

“She excelled from the word go and now goes four or five times a week.

“Straight away she was performing high kicks and other complex manoeuvres.

“Her confidence has gone through the roof and we very much doubt that she’ll ever have problems with bullies again.

“In fact, if anything, the other children seem to be a bit scared of her.

“She absolutely loves it and we are so proud of her success.”

Kiya’s family are now raising money so she can represent England in France and have set up a fundraising page for anybody willing to help out.

Rebecca added: “It really is the opportunity for a lifetime for Kiya and it would mean so much if people are able to help.”

To donate visit https://www.gofundme.com/22pctkk