There are three new black belts at the Braintree-based Martial Arts Centre.

Evelyn Higgon, who, at ten-years-old, became the centre’s youngest-ever karate black belt, along with Abbie Sutton and Isla Scott, who are both 12, successfully graded to the prestigious level after years of hard work.

All three girls are part of the centre’s Junior Karate squad and have medalled at the SENI London Open Championships and the English National championships.

Martial Arts Centre chief instructor David Wilson said: “All three girls have performed at the highest level nationally and have proved what can be done with hard work, and of course talent.

“They are an excellent example to our younger members who look upon them as role medals.”

There was also joy for Danny Bates, Aaron Mellor and Jack Reed, who also graded up to become black belts.