A ROYAL Marine from Taunton is hoping to raise £3,000 in a bid to compete in the Judo World Championships in Mexico in October.

Colin Francis, 33, is a 3rd degree black belt competing for 40 Commando at Norton Manor Camp, in Norton Fiztwarren.

Colin, who has been competing since the age of eight, won silver in the European Judo Championships in Glasgow in June.

It will be his second shot at the IJF Veteran World Judo Championships after coming fifth in the competition in Sardinia last year.

He is raising money along with his training partner Donna Riggs, 32, a rehabilitation assistant at Yeovil District Hospital.

Somerset County Gazette:

Hoping to make it to Mexico - Colin Francis and Donna Riggs.

The pair train at Shepton Mallet Judo Club and are hoping to represent the county and the country at the World Championships.

Colin said: "After coming so close last year it would be great to be able to compete again and hopefully bring a medal back to Taunton.

"Donna and I both compete at national level but don’t receive any financial sponsorship – so a long haul flight and accommodation for the duration is out of reach without additional support."

To support Colin and Donna in their quest for gold, click here.