A 24 HOUR martial arts marathon was completed in Grays today (Saturday, 23 July) to help fundraise and raise awareness of a borough-based charity supporting inspirational six-year-old Dottie Rees.

As Nub News reported in the past week Dottie, from Grays, is fighting a battle against a brain tumour but she and her parents have turned the experience into a remarkable journey showcasing her bravery and helping and inspiring others.

Dottie was diagnosed with Bithalamic Glioma in September 2020 aged four. Under the care and with support from Great Ormond Street Hospital she is now firmly on a pathway to beat the illness and 'Dottie's Journey' has become a charitable cause that has motivated many people to support her and the causes she supports. Earlier this year staff and players at Queens Park Rangers FC, a lifelong passion for Dottie's dad John, raised more than £40,000 for Dottie's Trust.

Among those inspired by Dottie is Dave Cole from the Tekio Cempa martial arts group in Grays which has just hosted a 24 hour dojo marathon at St John's church hall which featured more than 50 participants, including Dottie, and drew many more siupporters to cheer them on.

Nub News popped along to see the conclusion of the event and hear its organisers say thanks to so many people for their support.