YOUNG players from Samurai Judo Club were in action at an important grading event in High Wycombe as they aim for honours including a coveted black belt.

Hetty Tinsdale, aged 16, won three out of four contests to complete the competitive requirement for the award.

Despite being much lighter than all of his opponents Nathan Gallacher produced some brilliant judo, throwing two opponents for maximum points before losing to a third on the ground.

Although the sixteen-year-old dominated this last contest once his opponent got him on the floor the weight difference was just too much.

Sam Woodward, already a first level black belt, was making his first attempt to get towards his second level black belt and picked up his first ten points out of the hundred which he needs by beating another black belt with some excellent groundwork.

Meanwhile, some of the junior players took part in an open competition at the club.

Spencer Benton gained a silver medal and there were five bronzes, for Jack Walker, Luke Mole, Meghann O’Sullivan , Isaac Sobolewski, Harley White and Harrison Flello.

Lucas Kent also passed the first stage of his next refereeing award, passing the theory element of the exam. He will now do the practical at the forthcoming British Schools Championships in Sheffield.