THREE Bishop Auckland girls made a rapid rise in the martial arts world.

Hannah Robinson, aged 11, Sophie Coulthard, 13, and her 15-year-old sister Holly, have joined the elite band of people holding tae kwon do black belts - after just three years in the sport.

The trio, who train twice at week at Kings James I Community College with Kath Allinson, of the Kim Chungo Kwan Tae Kwon Do group, worked extra hard to move through the grading system, earning their coveted black at a grading day in Sheffield.

Hannah said: "We have done every grade from white to black and have been able to double up a few times, so it has been very quick.

"We all enjoy the sport and the classes and have found them great fun."

Mrs Allinson said: "The girls have been very dedicated. I am really pleased with them. They have had exactly the right attitude as well as the knowledge and the discipline to succeed.

"I couldn't have had three better students."

The King James classes are on Mondays and Thursdays from 6pm. Telephone (01325) 241144 for information.