Ross on Wye Taekwondo has gained another black belt, Lauren Darkes.

Lauren, who is 15 years old, started training a few years ago, and has been encouraged by her father Paul Darkes, who is already a black belt. Her instructor, Paul Eacock who is a 5th degree black belt said: "When Lauren started training she came across as a nice but shy girl, who possibly needed to gain a bit of confidence in herself.

"Through her own efforts, she has certainly gained that confidence, along with a lot of skill. I am very proud of her. She doesn't go around bragging about what she does, so I think a lot of people are going to be very surprised when they discover what she has achieved."

Lauren trains on Sundays 5-6pm and on Wednesdays from 6.30-7.30pm at Tudorville and District Community Centre.

For more information call Paul on 07815562631 or visit britishtkd.co.uk.

For more stories in full please see this week's Ross Gazette.