NOVEMBER was a testing time for three adult members from the Ju Jitsu Tavistock club.

Ian Lawson, Mark Turner and Robert Curtis were put forward for their first degree black belt and second degree black belt respectively.

They went all out in front of a grading panel headed by Piero Rovigatti sensei, eight degree black belt. Their hard work, determination and dedication to jujitsu paid off, passing the gruelling test with flying colours.

Umberto Bergonzini, the club founder, said: 'I was confident in their abilities but at the same time, being their instructor, I was quite nervous.

'I was happy and relieved at the news they had passed and that they performed extremely well.

'I can definitely say they did me, the club and their fellow students proud. The Tavistock club can now boast three excellent black belts.'

Ian Lawson said: 'For me this is a great personal achievement which would not have been possible without the support and patience of Umberto and my fellow Jujitsuka — I can't thank them enough!'

Mark Turner said: 'Naturally, I'm really happy to have achieved this level of ability after many years of training, but this would not have been possible without the support of my instructor and the assistance of my fellow club-members, for which I'm very grateful.'

Robert Curtis said: 'It was a very nerve-racking and exhilarating experience. My thanks go to Mark and Ian for all their help and my Launceston students for their support.'

The club has been steadily growing in the last seven years with a stronghold of over 50 members training and taking part in the various club activities and is ready to welcome new students who wish to join.

The club meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Scout Hall in Pixon Lane. Anyone interested in joining can contact Umberto on 07866 720361 or come to one of the classes.

More information and exact time of classes can be obtained by visiting http://www.jujitsu.uk.com">www.jujitsu.uk.com