WKO PT Ltd is a long-established martial arts and kickboxing club based in Neath Port Talbot, with a heritage dating back to 1996. Originally founded as the Afan Lido Kickboxing & Karate Club by the late Shihan Ritchie Noblett (8th Dan), the organisation has built a strong reputation for excellence, producing Welsh, British, European, and World Champions.
Following Mr Noblett’s passing in 2009, Mark Watkins, now a 6th Dan black belt and former international competitor, took over leadership and evolved the club into WKO PT Ltd in 2017. Under his direction, the club has continued to thrive, supporting over 223 members and contributing both to elite sport and community wellbeing.
WKO PT Ltd faced significant financial and operational pressures as a result of wider economic impacts associated with changes at Tata Steel, leading to:
- A reduction in membership
- A monthly income loss
- A projected annual turnover reduction
The decline was attributed to reduced disposable income among local residents, with members prioritising essential household spending over recreational activities. This posed a serious risk to the sustainability of the club, including the potential loss of employment and a reduction in community provision.
WKO PT Ltd successfully secured grant funding through the Tata Steel UK Resilience Fund. This funding enabled the delivery of the “WKO Improvements Project”, a transformative investment designed to stabilise and grow the business through relocation and facility enhancement. The funding supported the relocation of WKO PT Ltd to a dedicated training space within the Warehouse Gym in Taibach.
Key elements of the project included:
- Creation of a purpose-built training facility, including:
- Installation of a stud wall and secure access
- Insulation and suspended ceiling for energy efficiency
- Improved lighting and environmental controls (heating/air conditioning)
- Enhanced training infrastructure, including:
- Boxing ring, mats, punch bags, and specialist equipment
- Sound system to support classes and coaching delivery
- Improved welfare and spectator facilities, including:
- Toilets and changing provisions
- A designated waiting/viewing area with live video screens for parents
- Operational flexibility, enabling:
- Full-day access without time restrictions
- Expanded class schedules and one-to-one sessions
The funding has been critical in securing the long-term future of WKO PT Ltd. By addressing the limitations of its previous premises, the business can now operate more efficiently and competitively.
The improved facility significantly enhances the customer experience, positioning the club to:
- Attract new members through improved visibility and marketing
- Retain existing members by delivering higher-quality training
- Increase engagement through expanded class availability
The project has helped to create 1.5 full-time jobs and safeguard 1. Without the investment, the primary role within the business, and potentially the business itself, was at risk.
WKO PT Ltd plays a vital role in the local community by:
- Promoting physical health and mental wellbeing
- Providing structured activities for young people
- Supporting pathways into competitive sport at national and international levels
The improved facility strengthens this role, ensuring continued access to high-quality, inclusive sporting opportunities in an area impacted by industrial change.
“By safeguarding jobs, enhancing facilities, and strengthening community provision, the project demonstrates how targeted grant funding can deliver meaningful economic and social outcomes in areas affected by industrial change.”
“WKO PT Ltd is now well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence while supporting the health, wellbeing, and aspirations of the local community for years to come.”
This project is supported by UK Government through the Tata Resilience Fund
