A KARATE expert has been selected as part of a team of ten elite fighters from across the country to compete in a European contest.

Simon Cudworth, from Fishburn, will represent his country this month in the European Kyokushin Karate Championships, in Barcelona, Spain.

Mr Cudworth, 38, has been training hard in preparation for the finals at the Chikara Dojo, Spennymoor.

He said: "This form of competition can be particularly brutal, as no protective clothing is allowed and often a competitor may have to defeat many opponents in order to win."

The club takes part in different forms of karate and also has a women-only instructor.

For more information, contact Adam Walker on 07713 411198 or (01388) 810337.