HORIZON Taekwondo Academy pair Jamie Simpson-Kidd, from Silsden, and Ellie Bowden of Cullingworth have successfully retained their places in the Great Britain cadet development squad.

The group, which is coached by Sarah Stevenson MBE, is part of the talent pathway to the Great Britain national team, with the seniors (17 and over) at the top followed by the junior (14-17) and cadet (12-14) age groups.

Stevenson – a four-time Olympian, two-time world champion and four-time European champion – has been mentoring talents such as Jamie and Ellie through her Sarah Stevenson Inspires workshops and seminars over the past couple of years.

South Craven School pupil Jamie, 12, retained his place having had a successful 12 months on the competition circuit, despite moving up two weight groups and one age group.

He is now bidding for a place in the Great Britain team for the Cadet European Championships in 2015.

Parkside School pupil Ellie, who is undefeated this year, has also retained her squad place.

The 13-year-old is seeking a berth in the Great Britain team for the Junior European Championships next year.

The pair will need to compete in selection events around Europe over the next 12 months to have a chance of succeeding in their goal.