A North-East Judo Club is celebrating after two of its members became national champions.

Kyu Shin Do Ryu Judo Club, which has bases in Chester-le Street and Houghton-le-Spring, took a team of five down to the British Judo Councils (BJC) Open National Championships in Kettering earlier this month.

And it proved to be a successful weekend for the club with four of their team coming away with medals, including two golds.

James Robinson, 14, made it a national double by adding the 50kg title to the one he won in November at the BJC Closed National Championships, which were held in Hereford.

He was joined on top of the podium by eight-year-old Sam Mordue, who took the Under-10s title after fighting off a tough field of opponents.

Sam's brother, Connor, 11, also claimed a medal, winning silver in his age group, while Isabelle Morris, 10, won a bronze in the girl's Under-12 category.

Andrew Gatenby completed the line-up and despite an impressive performance he just missed out on a medal.

Second Dan, Chris Mordue, who coaches members alongside Sensei Bryan Wilson, admits the club's latest success is down to the dedication of its members.

"The enthusiasm and dedication to improve from these kids is fantastic. They train three times a week amongst taking part in other sports. It's amazing, because they never seem to tire!

"Their fantastic attitude and work ethic that been rewarded with medals at a national competition and it's absolutely great for them, the club and the region."

And even though some of his pupils are still only a short way into their judo careers, Mordue believes they could go on to bigger and better things if they put their minds to it.

He said: "If they keep up their hard work and interest in the sport, there's no reason why these kids can't go on to compete at the highest level.

"They've certainly got the talent and hopefully we will bring more medals back to the North-East in the future."

Kyu Shin Do Ryu welcomes new members of any age or ability and anyone interested in getting involved in the sport can get more information by ringing 07843256636 or by emailing enquiries@kyushindoryujudoclub.co.uk.