The Holistic Karate School in Midsomer Norton recently held their quarterly grading examinations, with twelve members being promoted to a higher belt.

Elizabeth Eastell passed her Orange belt grading, whilst the Red belt was achieved by William Eastell, Kieran Loranz and Josh Earwaker.

Daksha Anulal, Aditya Anulal & Max Watts all passed Yellow belt, whilst Purple and White was passed by Zehra Sen and Dawn Ashman.

The Brown belt was passed by Lucy Metters-Marshall, with the Brown and White belt being earned by Joe Metters-Marshall and Charlotte Earwaker.

Instructor Charlie Wildish, 4th Dan, said: “Everybody did very well and I’m proud of each and every one of them. I would, however, like to make a few special mentions. Lucy Metters-Marshall was off training for a long time with a knee problem, and finally returned to training a few months ago.

“I didn’t think she’d have enough time to achieve the high-standard required for the grading, but she did a lot of extra training at home and also with her friend, Charlotte, who gave her some extra help too. With the extra work, determina- tion and Charlotte’s support, Lucy was able to reach the standard, take her grading and get a full pass. Both girls are a credit to the Holistic Karate school; one for her determination and the other for her generous supportive spirit.

“Also, I’d like to mention Dawn Ashman, who is just a few weeks away from becoming seventy. Dawn is training twice a week with me, and regularly practising at home too. Although gradings do take into account a person’s physical capabilities and limitations, Dawn continues to push through what both she and I had previously thought she’d be capable of.

“Not only that, but Dawn suffers from COPD, and since training for the last two years she has been able to seriously reduce the medication for it, as her training has given more control over her diaphragmatic breathing – part of good martial art technique. She truly is an inspiration!”

Anybody interested in trying Karate for health, confidence or self-defence can learn more about the club at: www.holistickarate.com.