End of an era, as martial arts school leaves home base of 35 years

It’s an end of an era for the Mark Farnham Schools of Tae kwon-do, who have left their long-standing base at Providence Street after more than 35 years of making champions.

The school – which is relocating to a new base at the Discovery Centre in Columbia Way – has used the Community Centre since first starting back in November 1987.

A lot has happened since the first class with just four students all those years ago.

Because of the success of this Tae Kwon-Do Schools, Mark Farnham now operates 16 schools across East Anglia with more than 400 students training every week.

During that time, they have gained nearly 600 Black Belts and more than 15000 colour belt grading passes. As far as competitions go, they have won thousands of awards including 100 World champions, producing great fighters and competitors such as as Alan Jackson, Carl Grimes, Charlotte Scott and Warren Vice (22

times World Champion).

The school has four 6th Dan Master students from Lynn as well as World Master Mark Farnham, who has gained his 7th Dan.

Mark Farnham said: “It has been a rollercoaster ride over the last 35 years with a few down times but very many high points.

“We love the centre and are very sad to see it disappear after all we have done in it.

“It is very sad for all our students as development work will see the building demolished, but our school will continue as we move to the Discovery Centre from July 25.

“I would like to thank the Freebridge team that made it possible for us to do this.”

Anyone interested in joining the Mark Farnham Schools on their journey should call Mark on 07771644460 or visit: www.mftkd.co.uk for more information.