THE World Karate Championships in Switzerland were a personal success for three of Wigginton's Great Britain stars.

Although they did not win medals, 16-year-olds Rebecca Holmes and Carla Leadley passed grading exams and returned with 2nd Dans, while Wigginton and Great Britain coach Paul Wright was graded to 3rd Dan.

Wright, who had waited six years to pass the grading, was delighted with their achievements.

"For the club this is a tremendous effort. We're ecstatic," he said.

Matthew Dawson, 14, from the Wigginton club, was on the mat first in his grading and, despite performing well, did not pass.

Northallerton Karate Club were also represented at the championships, instructor Grant Smith grading to 3rd Dan, and Cheryl Hadwin, 16, getting her 2nd Dan. Dee Burnett, 16, missed out on her 1st Dan.

The British team, under Wright's guidance, returned with three third places, two seconds and one overall champion.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.