A WATFORD karate club has had all of its 80 students achieving grades and awards this month.

Members of karate clubs from all over the south of England attended a ceremony at Watford Leisure Centre where students were given awards and graded.

All of the members of Watford's JSK Shotokan Karate Club went up a grade which means they have moved onto the next belt colour.

Staff at the club, which teaches at training rooms, or "dojos" in the Bill Everett Centre and St Thomas' Church in Langley Road, say that they are not only unusual because of their success with grades but because half their students are women.

Instructor Mr Kevin Leigh who runs the dojo said: "Martial arts usually puts women off and going into a dojo can be one of the most intimidating things but at our club everyone is welcome.

"We concentrate on keeping fit, active and then the self defence tends to follow on from that.

"I think women find it an attractive alternative to steps or aerobics as it also builds confidence and there is a good social side to it as well."

For further information about JSK Shotokan Karate telephone Mr Leigh on 07733 361045.