TWO young martial art experts are hoping Hereford Times readers will help make their dreams of international success come true.

Alex Quinn, nine, and Dali Hopkins, 10, are both ranked within the top 10 of UK Brazilian jiu jitsu competitors and have been selected to test their skills internationally with Team GB.

Their first competition takes place in California in February and could see the children become World Champions in their respective age groups.

But the children’s families are facing quite a bill to make it happen and are calling on readers and local businesses to become sponsors and help fund the trip.

Both Alex, a pupil at Hampton Dene Primary School, and Dali, who is at Our Lady's Primary School, train at least three times a week at The Combat Academy in Hereford under the watchful eyes of Dave Coles.

They also attend Elite Kids training sessions in Birmingham along with their team mate, Ryan Hill, 15, who has also been selected as a juvenile.

Having received sponsorship this year – from Central Roofing and The Point 4 – they are looking for ways to cover the costs which have mounted substantially now the pair are training at an elite level.

Both children have been training for around four years and their families say their passions for what they do has helped propel them to the top of the UK team.

Anyone who can help is asked to email jph@herefordtimes.com