POPSTAR Michael Jackson's former bodyguard and owner of the UKs largest martial arts schools, has received his seventh dan black belt.

Matt Fiddes, who lives in Tavistock, was presented with his belt by Bob Sykes, the owner of 'Martial Arts Illustrated' magazine at the British Championships Martial arts tournament in Swindon. Fiddes then went on to perform an exciting and humorous martial arts demonstration to mark the occasion, which he has not done in public for eight years.

Matt is currently in the process of setting up a number of martial arts schools in the area to include children's classes, adults, ladies Only and special weapons and advanced training classes.

Fiddes and Sykes, also presented a prestigious award to Plymouth and Tavistock martial arts instructor Jason Cook, with the aid of Nicola McLean, of 'I'm a Celebrity get me out of here' fame.

Nicola will be the face of the Matt Fiddes ladies only kickboxing classes.

Jason also received 'best new franchise 2011.' This was awarded for his service to students and going the extra mile, especially with his children's classes. The most recent example saw some local police officers in Plympton coming to take a special class with his younger students about staying safe and avoiding potentially dangerous situations.