Oliver Willison from Pocklington Karate Centre can hold his head up high after a fine debut with the England squad in the World Karate Association World Championships.

Despite only just recovering from a hamstring injury, he finished in seventh place in his 27-strong category at Niagara Falls, Canada.

He said: "It was a great atmosphere over there, with everyone in the squad behind you as you competed in what could only be described as an amphitheatre, with spectators all the way around. The standard from around the world was superb and has really opened my eyes."

Willison will soon be in training again in an attempt to qualify for next year's worlds in Spain, but had to withdraw from the French Open due to lack of funds and injury.

PKC will be holding a Christmas club competition on December 15 and will launch a new beginners course in the new year. For further details phone 01759 302886, or 01759 303998, or 07786 332090.

Updated: 11:04 Wednesday, December 07, 2005