A NATIONAL karate champion who studies at the University of East London (UEL) is preparing for European glory.

Amy Thomason, 20, who is studying media and creative industries at UEL, represents England in karate and is also a member of the Great Britain University Team.

She won gold in the British University Championships in June and became a commonwealth karate champion three years ago.

In July she is competing in the European Universities Karate Championship in Cordoba, Spain, while also working to finish her studies.

She said: "It’s a really hectic time for me at the moment as I’m training hard and finishing my degree so I’m really looking forward to taking part in the European Championships afterwards.

"After that, the sky is the limit competition-wise and whatever happens, it’s all great preparation for my goal of becoming a sports writer!”

Miss Thomason took up karate when she was just seven years old and living in New Zealand.

Olive Stubbs, UEL Media and creative studies programme leader, said: “Amy is a true champion and a talented student who has worked incredibly hard in training for her competitions and finishing all her course work on time.

"I am delighted that she is the national champion and I wish her every success for the future.”