ELEVEN Deeside Tae Kwon-Do students were handed their latest belts at a presentation evening this week.

The students, aged between 8 and 35, were handed their new black belts at Deeside Leisure Centre on Tuesday, April 16.

After years of training, Harri Wood (12) and Lauren Evans (22) earned their second Dan black belts, while nine of their peers picked up their first black belts.

Harri and Lauren were joined on the evening by Caden Wood and Oliver Phillips (both 8), Harvey Fielder and Theo Jones (both 9), as well as Neha Sharma, Johan Varghse, and Alice Dinca who are all 12-years-old.

Sharon Wood (40) and Peter Williams (36) completed the latest group of graduating students from Deeside Tae Kwon-Do, which was established back in 1991.

Instructor, Darren Richardson, 48, who has practiced taekwondo for 34 years, is delighted with his latest crop of graduates. He said: “I’m proud of all my students.

“It’s a hell of an achievement for them all, especially for Harri who is one of the youngest around the country to become a second Dan black belt.

“People think it’s just kicking and punching, but it isn’t. Taekwondo helps to build confidence and character, as well as self-defence and self-discipline.

“It’s very difficult, and certainly not an easy accomplishment. They’ve pushed themselves really hard by training for years to achieve their black belts and shown such commitment and dedication.

“The favourite part of my job is giving rewards and certificates to those who have earned it. People were there to see them collect their belts, and it can really be a life-changing achievement.

Following the success of the eleven students who achieved their latest black belts, Deeside Tae Kwon-Do are now taking on new beginners who are interested in pursuing the Korean martial art.

For more information about Deeside Tae Kwon-Do, or to book your free trial session, get in touch with instructor Darren Richardson by calling 07735337433, or by visiting www.deesidetaekwondo.co.uk.