YOUNGSTER Lee Schofield has joined the black belt ranks at Haxby Shotokan Karate Club.

Schofield, who is only 12, passed two out of three parts of his black belt in February before successfully passing the third part at a karate course in Nottingham recently. He was awarded his black belt by Alan Campbell, head of JKS England.

Chief instructor Sensei Mike Gude said: “The club is very proud of Lee.

“He had been disappointed to miss out on being awarded his black belt in February, but he has worked very hard and has been determined to get his black belt.

“Our members range from the age of five to over-60 and include both beginners and black belts. He has proved to them all that hard work does pay off.

“Anyone wanting to follow in Lee’s footsteps is welcome to come along to one of our training sessions.”

Haxby Shotokan Karate Club train at Wigginton Recreation Hall on Mondays and Thursdays from 6.30pm to 7.30pm for ages five to eight, while adults and children aged eight and above train from 7pm to 9pm.

For more information, visit the website www.haxbykarate.co.uk or phone 07583 249115.