KARATE

EPPING and Woodford-based Karate club Shikon topped the medal chart at the English National Karate Championships.

Shikon entered a slightly smaller squad than usual at the event in Nottingham due to the sudden change of date.

They topped the table for the seventh successive year ahead of FEKO and the KUGB probably the two largest groups in the country.

Gold medals went to Oliver Briggs, Shauna Carroll, Mary Berwick, Conor Hill, Daniel Cuthbert, Ami Carrigan-Smith, Leon Martin and Danny Hollister, who picked up two individual first places.

Shikon also took gold in both the boys and men's teams as well.

Coach Ian Cuthbert said: "I was pleased with the overall performance of the squad especially the newer members like Maty Berwick and Charlie Collins who took gold in team and individual silver medals as well.

"To top the overall medal standings for a seventh straight year with a smaller squad this time was a great achievement."

Shikon now look forward to the Junior World Championships in Italy In November.