Irvine Takeda Karate Club has been handed a £750 cash boost from housebuilders Persimmon Homes.

The club has been announced as the first winner of the Persimmon Homes West Scotland Healthy Communities campaign.

Irvine Takeda Karate is a not for profit club which runs three weekly classes, and welcomes over 200 members aged from four upwards.

The club has been part of the North Ayrshire community for over 40 years.

The club’s James Heaney said: “We are thankful for the generous donation from Persimmon Homes.

“This money will allow our junior members to enter national and world championships as well as purchasing new equipment for the club.

“We are currently fundraising to make sure our members have the equipment they need to ensure they reach their maximum potential.”

Every month this year, Persimmon Homes West Scotland will hand out £750 to either a sports team, or individual aged 21 years and under in the area, with the money to be spent on kit, equipment, coaching or facilities.

Then in January 2018, Persimmon Homes’ 30 businesses will then choose a team or individual to represent them in the grand final.

An online public vote will then decide the final winner, with one individual or group scooping the £200,000 top prize and two runnersup winning £50,000 each.

Doug Law, managing director at Persimmon Homes West Scotland, said: “We’re delighted to be supporting Irvine Takeda Karate Club.

“The club are a vital part of the community and we wish them every success in future competitions.”

To find out more or to enter the competition, visit www. persimmonhomes.com/charity Persimmon Homes West Scotland is currently building in Irvine at its Montgomerie View development.