Years of dedicated work paid off for Yong Gi Do Karate Club members as they passed grading exams for new black belts at Rayne Village Hall.

John Amory and Sam Cook were awarded their first Dan black belts, while James Hardingham and Daniel Cook achieved their first Dan Senior and Lisa Attreed, Clive Chinnery and John Miskimmin attained their second Dans.

Students have to train for a minimum of four years to be eligible for to grade to black belt and at least another two years for second Dan and they had to complete written tests, fitness tests and several hours of basics, forms, self-defence and fighting.

Master Neil Bridgwater said “We are very proud of students’ achievements.

“They have shown dedication to their art over many years and the results of this were demonstrated by the high standard shown during the grading.

“These black belts are just a few of the fantastic Yong Gi Do team that help the club continue to excel at Tang Soo Do.”