A YOUNG girl who was diagnosed with autism strikes gold after taking up martial arts.

Lilly Pidsley, 11 who had struggled with her social skills during her early years has transformed since taking up the marital art Jiu-jitsu.

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Her mother, Marie Pidsley said: “The difference in her was slow at the start but she has found what works for her. She was very reliant on us, but since then, I’ve seen her confidence grow and it is helping her make new friends. We pushed her a little bit to keep her going but she pushes herself too.”

“It is broadening her horizons and she now goes to an all-women’s class four times a week. She is a completely different child.”

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Lily is a grey/white belt and already has two stripes. She recently won a gold medal at Bournemouth and is sponsored by Battle Soaps and MKF Scaffolding.

Marie said: “She sees things that others don’t. Jiu-jitsu has helped to train her mind.”

She is hoping that she can do jiujitsu for her GCSEs if the school will offer it.

Marie said: I think this is a lifelong thing now. She has spoken to her jiu-jitsu teacher about going around schools and helping them to teach others. It feels as if it will be a part of her life.”  

Lilly trains at Southern Quarter in Amesbury and is now a junior ambassador for fighting autism.