THREE members of Irimi Kai karate club, Cilgerran, passed a black belt grading with flying colours recently.

Wayne Hopkins,Laura Kirkby and Amy Thomas were required to produce a thesis on what karate means to them and also complete a written exam on the Japanese terminology of the complete syllabus prior to the black belt grading.

Laura and Amy were assessed through training sessions on the many techniques of the martial art.

"Wayne, Laura and Amy have excelled in what was expected of them," said sensei Aneurin. "I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all students on passing their grades."

Laura and Amy both passed their 1st dan while Wayne achieved 2nd dan.

Anyone wanting to train in karate contact the club instructor Aneurin Mathias on 01239 614264/07968 618605.