STUDENTS from Otley Karate Centre had plenty to celebrate at their recent grading examinations held at the URC Bridge Church Hall.

Proving that karate is suitable for all ages and abilities are grandfather Bob Duffisey and his grandson Hugo Crowther who both successfully obtained their yellow belts.

Elliot Newell also impressed at his first grading and achieved the highest marks of the evening.

The students were graded by Shihan Ken Gee (ninth Dan), president of the Shukokai-ShitoRyu Karate Alliance.

Shihan Gee is one of the highest-ranked karate-ka in the UK, so a pass mark awarded by him is one that is both well-deserved and well respected in the karate world.

Club instructors John Walker (sixth Dan) and Michael Hofman (second Dan) were pleased with everyone's performance on the night and singled out the performance of Elliot Newell.

“Elliot has worked hard and applied himself diligently since starting his karate lessons with us and this shows in the marks he was awarded for his grading.” said Sensei Hofman.

Anyone interested, young or old, who would like further information about karate classes at the Otley Karate Centre should contact either John Walker 0113 255 7565 or Michael Hofman 07870 432707 or you can email otleykaratecentre@outlook.com for details of their four-week karate introductory courses.