TWO kickboxers from Flint have been recognised for their charity work in the community with an invitation to a prestigious event at Buckingham Palace.

Ricky Nicholson, who owns Nicholson Kickboxing and Fitness gym on Flint’s Manor Industrial Estate, spoke of his pride about being invited to attend a Royal Garden Party at Westminster in London.

He said: “It is a fantastic privilege and honour to be recognised for the work we do to help our community grow and improve itself.

“I am a firm believer that where and when you can give something back to the community you grew up in, you should. We could not do what we do without the help of people who donate to us and allow us to help people in Flint.

“We accepted the invitation gratefully as it is not something you get to go to often.”

The Leader has previously reported on the numerous fundraising efforts of the former kickboxing world champion, including raising funds for to buy a Flint girl with spina bifida a second walking frame to keep at school and a 24-hour charity sparring event in memory of Saltney teenager Kieran Lloyd to name but a few.

Danny Dixon, a professional MMA fighter from Flint, was also invited for his part in the charity work that has benefitted his community.

He spoke to the Leader about why he thinks the charity he helps is vitally important.

He said: “As a professional mixed martial artist, the reason and aim for all of this is help each other grow and better ourselves each day. Life is tough enough so no need to make it any harder by not working together. Hopefully one day I will be at a higher platform to get the message across to as many as possible.”