KIDDERMINSTER martial arts star James Winsper continued on his comeback trail by winning the highly prestigious Battle of the Celts.

The full-contact karate competition in Cornwall saw 32 fighters from around the country compete to win the Celtic Sword trophy.

Winsper, who won the event five years ago before taking an injury-enforced break from the sport, has made a blazing comeback to the national Karate scene.

He put on a great display of power and speed to win the title for the second time.

Winsper, who runs the Winspers School of Blackbelts, won his first fight despite being restricted to competing with one hand for much of the bout after seriously injuring his left shoulder.

After getting through the preliminary bouts and the quarter finals, Winsper was due to fight team-mate Dave Hylton in the semi-finals.

But Hylton, who had blasted his way past his previous opponents, stepped down and let Winsper progress through to the finals.

In the final, fought over two rounds, Winsper started quickly and built up a big points lead, which he held on to by overpowering his opponent.

In the final round, Winsper used his kicks to push his opponent back and rest his arm.

He eventually won by a score of 23-4.

Winsper said: "It was a great event and all of our team peformed well.

"My fighting was hampered a little with my shoulder, but I won and that's the main thing.

"I felt good and feel it was a pretty good performance."

Team-mate Luke Swingler picked up the Best Fighter award after winning two fights against much heavier opponents before dislocating a thumb.

Winspers Schools of BlackBelts' children's team picked up the youth team title, while Claire Linney came second in the ladies division.