The DFM Kickboxers took their gradings at Willowburn Sports Centre, Alnwick, last Wednesday, to test their knowledge and expertise in kickboxing and fitness.

They first had to demonstrate their level of fitness with set amounts of sit-ups, press-ups, squats and rounds of skipping.

They were then tested on their punching, kicking and striking techniques against kick shields and focus mitts.

DFM Instructor Donald Robinson said: "They all put in hundred per cent and really deserved to go up to the next levels.

"There were a few early nerves but by the time we got through the fitness section they had settled down and got on with the task at hand."

The students also had to spar in rounds to test their combat ability, stamina and fighting heart. Terri Hopper was awarded her brown belt; Jo Kelly her blue belt; Sea Young won her green belt and Yasmin Williams her orange belt.

The kickboxing club meets every Wednesday, Willowburn Sportas Centre, Alnwick, from 7.30pm. The club also has DFM Reivers Mixed Martial Arts classes at Willowburn, Wednesdays from 6pm, and Directional Fighting Method, a modern street combat system, from 7.30pm. Directional Fighting Method is also taught at St Michael's Hall, Cannongate, from 7.30pm, and DFM ladies Kickboxercise class at Willowburn on Sundays from 5pm. Email phil.Doherty@hotmail.co.uk for more details. DFM Martial Arts is a member of the AMA.