TWINS Amelia and Zac Monterio, aged 13, from Wellington, earned success at the South West Karate Championships, winning gold and silver in their respective tournament fighting (kumite) categories, which were held at The Clifton Hill Sports Centre, Exeter.

Amelia did superbly in overcoming strong opponents from the Barnstaple Shotokan Club and eventually meeting Fellow Courtfields Karate Academy Student Sophie Graham, also 13, from Hemyock, in the finals.

It was Amelia who won gold, with Sophie taking silver, in the girls' 12-16 years category.

Zac, meanwhile, who was competing against fighters from clubs from as far away as Bristol and Bath, fought through tough rounds to reach the finals, eventually winning silver in the boys' 12-15 years category.

Sensei Andy Purrington, 4th Dan, Chief Instructor, who runs Courtfields Karate Academy, said it was a huge boost to Amelia, Zac and Sophie's confidence as they now prepare for forthcoming events.

The Academy aims to inspire confidence and self esteem within the club, and prides itself on getting the best out of their students with perseverance and dedication.

Classes run on Tuesdays and Fridays at Courtfields School, Wellington, and the Academy is now opening a new beginner's course in Shotokan Karate for anyone from five years upwards.

For further details visit www.devonandsomersetkarate.weebly.com or call 07970 969632.