Two martial arts clubs in Barrhead have joined forces to launch a purpose-built facility in the town centre.

The Barrhead Community Muay Thai Boxing Club and Three Kings MMA clubs formed a partnership creating the new Elevate Community Martial Arts Centre located at Unit 1, 194 Main Street.

Vinnie McWilliams, coach at Barrhead Community Muay Thai Boxing Club, said: "We made the decision to move from the Foundry reluctantly.

"Barrhead has had a Muay Thai Boxing Club within the Foundry for around 25 years and it's where I first started training Muay Thai full-time.

"The club has started to produce some great local fighters now so moving to a new unit where we could offer more specific equipment was a must moving forward.

Barrhead News: The Elevate Community Martial Arts Centre provides classes in MMA, Jujitsu and Muay Thai, and are

"We absolutely loved our time within the Foundry as the staff were great but to grow the club we had to open a new purpose-built facility that would allow us to extend class times and add new classes also."

Scott Drummond of the Three Kings MMA, said he started his martial arts training with Mr McWilliams, describing him as his first choice of partner to open the new facility with.

Mr Drummond said: "I had to drag him kicking and screaming from the Foundry but deep down I think he knows it for the best."

The new club attracted the attention of businessman Richie Tyrell, who runs Guardian Scaffolding.

Mr Tyrell donated more than £2,000 to the club.

Mr McWilliams said: "To be honest, we wouldn't have been able to open the new facility without Richie's help, because of him we have been able to purchase essential equipment like a boxing ring and most of the pads we use for training.

"Myself and Scott are truly grateful to Richie, there really aren't enough people like him in the world and we can't thank him enough."

The Elevate Community Martial Arts Centre provides classes in MMA, Jujitsu and Muay Thai, and is looking to start a yoga and kettlebell class.