The UK National Shodokan Karate Squad, Southern Zone, have returned from the Goju Cup in Hungary with seven medals, helping the UK to claim victory in the competition for the first time.

The squad, which are based out of several studios in west Essex and east London, took six competitors to Szombathely in Hungary, winning seven medals on their travels.

Sixteen-year-old Rebecca Asuka Peace led the way, winning gold in Kumite and silver in Kata, adding to her previous international success. Rebecca Collins, 13, won gold in Kumite.

Noufi Theodoulou claimed bronze in Kata, whilst Cat Burnett, 20, made her mark on the international circuit by winning gold in both Kata and Kumite. Bassam Talsi fought a hard battle to claim silver in Kumite in the black belt open division.

Squad coach Marlan Anthony said: “As a squad coach I could not be happier with the performance of the team, the dedication and commitment that they show to reach such levels is second to none.

“The UK was highly represented and was recognised by other countries as being the team to beat. The guys on the squad deserve praise for their performances especially those that experienced international tournaments for the first time.

“Karate is not a funded sport and all the squad members had to raise the money themselves to represent their country and to do so well makes me proud as a coach.”