Chingford’s Noufi Theodoulou won the TKF National Kumite title as part of the Shodokan Southern Karate squad which excelled at the Gojukai UK Nationals in Ilford on Saturday.

Competing against members from England, Hungary, Italy, Bulgaria and Japan, the Shodokan Southern squad won four golds and a silver to build on their success at the Goju Cup in Hungary last month.

Theodoulou, 20, beat a Japanese competitor in the Kumite final, winning 8-1 to secure the TKF National title. The Chingford resident had previously been beaten by the same opponent in the kata competition.

Coach Marlan Anthony was full of praise for Theodoulou and said: “As a coach, the male open bout with Noufi Theodoulou was one of the best bouts I have seen this year.

“All the hard work and training paid off and for him to win in such style is something he should be so proud of. Noufi is a hard worker and does not miss a session which has become evident in his performances and I am looking forward to seeing him dominate internationally next year.”

Pheobe Kift, 11, claimed silver in Kumite in her maiden tournament, whilst 12-year-old Rebecca Collins took gold in the 13 to 14-year-old division.

Dylan Port, 17, reached the junior black belt final, where a hard-fought battle with the reigning champion saw him come out on top to win gold, having overcome teammate Thomas Peek earlier in the competition.