YOUNGSTER Holly Bamford is blazing a black belt trail at Haxby Shotokan Karate Club.
The 13-year-old was awarded her black belt (Shodan) by Alan Campbell, chairman of Japan Karate Shotorenmei GB and Ireland, the youngest at the club to achieve the feat.
Mike Gude, chief instructor at Haxby, said: “We are very proud of Holly’s achievement.
“Our philosophy is to teach good karate to all students whatever their ability.
“Holly is now the sixth black belt training at our club.”
Holly’s father, Jim, also a black belt, started training with Holly as a beginner in November 2007.
He said: “Her achievement is not only a result of her hard work but also a reflection of the good teaching and support Holly has received from the club.” Haxby Karate Kids’ classes for five to eight-year-olds are held on Mondays and Thursdays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
All other members train on Mondays and Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm at Wigginton Recreation Hall.
Further information is available on the website www.haxbykarate.co.uk
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