Raees Mahmood received a special merit award as he was graded as a black belt in ju-jitsu.

The 13-year-old started training at the Masters of Martial Arts ‘Little Dragons’ classes when he just five. 

Sensei Martin Dixon from the Masters of Martial Arts said: “Raees competed at the Masters of Martial Arts Championship held every year and has won lots of medals which put him in the position to enter the British National Championships representing his club.

“Raees has been a model student and we are sure he will continue onwards and upwards towards his senior black belt and even take up his coaching badges.”

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Raees is also a keen footballer turning out for Glenside FC and represents St Wilfrid's Academy's school football team.

Martin added: “Raees is an excellent athlete and always willing to learn and improve. He is backed and supported by a close loving family who make sure he stays on track in everything he does.”