YOUNG members of Tavistock Taekwon-Do club moved ever closer to prestigious black belts this week.

Eight-year-old Louis Dykes from Tavistock and ten-year-old Tim Exley from Gunnislake were among 18 juniors to receive awards at Tavistock College last Monday (December 16).

Louis proudly accepted a yellow belt (8th cup) while Tim earnt a white belt with yellow tag.

And the pair, both pupils at Gulworthy Primary School, shared the additional honour of obtaining credits for their progress in the Korean martial art.

Louis began weekly lessons at the club a year ago, and has now gained four belts in that time under the expert tuition of Chris Wood.

His proud father, Chris, said: ?He?s done really well and I?m very proud of him. The quality of teaching the kids get is outstanding.

?It?s not all about fighting, it?s about growing in confidence and learning to handle themselves in all sorts of situations without having to use force.

?They learn balance and co-ordination, as well as some Korean language and culture. There?s much more to it than meets the eye.?

Tim?s father, Martin, said: ?He has been going to the classes for a couple of years now. It?s a highly disciplined art, which teaches him self-reliance, confidence and a strong sense of self-discipline.?

Tavistock Taekwon-Do club meets every Monday and Wednesday in the Tavistock College gym. The Pumas, aged 4-6, meet at 5.20pm on Mondays. Juniors, aged 6-12 years, meet on Mondays from 6pm to 7pm and Wednesdays from 7pm to 8pm.

Adult lessons run from 7pm to 8pm on Mondays, and 8pm to 9pm on Wednesdays.

Anyone interested in joining should telephone 0845 600 1967.