A NEW karate class in Braintree is going from strength to strength and has graded its first students.

Simon Hall started Soo Bahk Do family karate school in February.

The club has already gained 25 students and is continuing to grow rapidly.

So far 15 students have taken their first grading and were presented with their yellow belts and promotion certificates on June 21.

Mr Hall said: "As an instructor promoting the students and handing out the first club grading certificates it was a very humbling and proud experience.

"I did get slightly choked but just so proud of how well everyone is doing.

"We have some really exceptional rising stars of the future at our club.

"Being the only Soo Bahk Do Karate club in the whole of Essex what we do is very different from anyone else around but being different is good and the students are all really enjoying their training."

The class meets every Wednesday night from 7.15pm until 8.15pm at St Michaels Church of England School, in Maple Avenue, Braintree.

Everyone aged six and older is welcome to join the club.

Visit www.essexsbd.com or call 07713160147.