KARATE kids at Kaizen No-Michi School of Shotokan Karate are one step closer to their black belts after passing a grading session with flying colours.

The students were put through their paces by Sensei Steve Carless, 5th Dan, and club chief instructors Sensei Andrew Jones, 4th Dan, and Jackie Jones, 3rd Dan.

The grading began with Kihon, a combination of basic skills such as punches, kicks, and strikes.

This was followed by Kumite, which involved sparring with pre-determined attacks, before students were tested on their Kata forms and preset moves.

Students Tony Walker and Julian Saunt looked confident, even though it was their first grading.

Beckham Tuplin, 10, gained his green belt (6th kyu) and Sensei Carless described him as "a confident and focused young man."

Each student received positive feedback.

Meanwhile, Luke Townsend and Lewis Simpson competed at the SCUKO National Senior League Karate Championships in the West Midlands.

It was their first outing in competition and both students performed well against seasoned competitors, Townsend achieving fourth position in the Kata event.

The club is based at Hereford Technology School, Westward Ho, Grimsby and holds classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 7pm–8.30pm.

For more information call 07989 331927 or visit www.kaizennomichi.co.uk.