KICKBOXER James Winsper made a winning return to action at the Bristol Open.

The fighter, who has a martial arts school in Kidderminster, came back from a three-year break to compete in the tournament.

Fighting in the men’s black belt division, Winsper had the most impressive start, when he knocked his opponent out within two seconds of the first round with a beautifully placed spinning hook kick to the jaw.

He then blazed through his other opponents by out-scoring and out-muscling them, before meeting a tough prospect from Dorking.

Winsper quickly built up a lead with speedy attacks and accurate kicks, before coasting through the final round to take the title.

“It felt good to be back fighting,” commented Winsper.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better start with that spinning kick.

“My second fight was the most difficult as it took me a while to shake off the rust, but once I beat him and moved on, I felt good.

“My power was good — I felt strong, my speed was fine and I was happy with my overall fitness.”

The fighter aims to step up his return to competitive fighting by topping a bill at the Kidderminster’s Town Hall in December.

His young students also brought back some medals from Bristol.

Matthew Lees and cousins Amanda and Lewis Maunder won gold in their age groups.

Anyone wishing to train at Winspers' school of kickboxing and sport karate can call him on 01562 865195.