Conor, 12, from Acton, a pupil at All Saints, took the grading in front of a panel of seven of the association's senior black belts, where he obtained 1st dan.

He is following a family tradition, having started karate training at the age of six.

Father Kevin, a black belt 2nd dan, helps with Conor's training at the clubs he is a member of – Acton, Cornard, Sudbury.

Brother Kyle, 15, also achieved black belt status at the age of 12, and will be taking his 2nd dan grading when he reaches 16. Sister Tori, 13, holds a brown belt, and mother Jill an orange belt.

At the same grading, a gruelling two-hour session, Vicki Litanzios was upgraded to black belt 3rd dan.

Both seniors and juniors are graded together, although under-16s are not allowed to spar.

Anyone interested in training in karate can contact Trevor White on 01787 312427 or 07850 038800.