Nicholas Barron’s 1st dan black belt was the highlight of the evening when Sheppey Karate Club held its quarterly grading event last week.

The Sheerness-based 19-year-old gained his award last Thursday after an intensive and demanding examination that put him on a par with his two older brothers, who are 2nd dan black belts at the club.

The evening began with a pre-grading one-hour lesson given by 4th dan Glenn Jones and 6th dan and chief instructor Arthur Wallace.

More than 54 club members attended the course with 43 students taking part in the grading.

There were several novices including Thomas Carey, 10, eight-year-old Ben Benedetti and seven-year-old Kyle Thurlow who gained both 10th and ninth kyu grades.

The 15-year-old brown belts Victoria Hunter and Shafi Ali, and 11-year-old Dean Caruthers gained their 1st kyus and they will now be preparing for their black belts at the end of the year.

The SKC has produced more than 104 black belts, including several 2nd, 3rd and 4th dans in its 34-year existence.

The club is running a 12-week beginners course from this week, with training taking place on Mondays and Thursdays.

Junior training begins at 6.30pm while adult sessions start at 7.30pm.

The course costs £9.99 for a 12-week programme.

Those interested should contact 01795 876 567 or email skc.wallace@virgin.net