THREE youngsters from a karate club in Milford have picked up a national championships bronze medal.

Sophie Hall, her brother Toby Hall and Josh Dicker claimed third place in the UK karate Team Kata at the annual UK SKKIF Karate Championships in Windsor.

The triumphant trio are all members of the Heiwa Surrey karate club, which is run by black belt Sensei Julie Mayes, and qualified for the UK championships at St Beaumont School in February.

Several months of hard training followed for 11-year-old Sophie, Toby and 13-year-old Josh, including extra squad training sessions at weekends as well as the after-school classes.

But it paid off in style in Berkshire when they clinched a prized medal with a perfectly-timed Kata – called Heian Shodan – with strength, conviction and focus.

Toby and Josh also did well in the Kumite (sparring) fights and Sophie, keeping a good guard and with super fast punches and blocks, won her fights to battle out for and win a second bronze.

Senseis Julie Mayes and Owen Scanlon said they were “very proud” of the trio.

The karate club’s dojo is at Burton Pavilion and classes are held after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To get involved, email [email protected].