A FUND-RAISING bash is being organised to help York judo ace Rob Thomas compete at the World Masters Tournament in Japan.

As reported by the Press, 37-year-old Thomas, who has recently lifted the European Masters open division crown, has been invited to compete in the prestigious tournament in the Far East but needs more sponsors to help to fund the trip.

The fund-raising event, to be held on Saturday, May 24 at the Groves Working Men's Club, will feature a disco, light buffet and raffle.

Tickets costing £3 are available from Liz Speck on 01904 658617 or Sandra Noble on 01904 337362.

Anyone willing to sponsor the one-time top-ranked heavyweight in Great Britain or offer prizes for the raffle is asked to contact the above numbers.

Updated: 10:51 Monday, May 12, 2003