THREE karate enthusiasts from a North-East club are celebrating becoming black belts.

Steve Bayliss, 43, Nathan Thompson, 28, and Kathryn Yates, 17, of the Sukona Club, in Darlington, achieved their belts after their skills were put to the test in gruelling two-hour session.

Sukona karate instructor Mike Greaves said: "They're all from Darlington and it's a great achievement for them." The three, who are among the club's 210 members, received their belts on Saturday.