THERE has been a flurry of martial arts successes at gradings and competitions in recent weeks. March-based Nighthawk Martial Arts Academy were celebrating a fine performance from 15-year-old Jade Booth, who scooped two European titles and a bronze medal

THERE has been a flurry of martial arts successes at gradings and competitions in recent weeks.

March-based Nighthawk Martial Arts Academy were celebrating a fine performance from 15-year-old Jade Booth, who scooped two European titles and a bronze medal in the British National Martial Arts Association (BNMAA) championships.

Jade won the girls' 15 to 17-year-old and ladies' (under five foot eight inches) light continuous categories before winning a bronze medal in the ladies semi-contact points section.

Nighthawk Martial Arts Academy trains at St Peter's Church Hall on Mondays and Thursdays.For more information call Peter Short on 01354 661750.

- THE Samurai Black Belt Karate School, Wisbech, held their first all-day grading event and no fewer than 74 students passed new grades.

The day was split into belt grade groups and there were 46 passes from 9th kyu orange to 4th kyu purple and white grades during the morning session.

In the afternoon, 28 passes from 3rd kyu brown belt to 1st kyu brown and two white were achieved.

Sensei Steve King said: "Ninety per cent of the students achieved personal best performances and everyone taking part should be very proud of themselves."

- MORE than 20 students from seven Fenland karate schools passed their 1st Dan gradings at Hillcrest School, Downham Market.

In addition to 21 1st Dan passes, there were three 2nd Dan passes for the students of the schools run by 5th Dan senseis Longmuir and Bolden.

For more information on these karate schools call 07725 343548 or contact S Bolden on 07855 162768.