SIX students from Bridport Martial Arts Club were upgraded at the Spirit Combat Senior Gradings which took place in Guildford, Surrey.

Jake Hawker was awarded a junior brown belt, while Jack Beard collected the junior master grade of Juichidan.

Conner Merson was awarded Junior Shodan (the second black belt grade), while Elizabeth Reynolds and Mark Merson earned adult 1st Dan black belts.

Instructor Steve Reynolds was also awarded with his 5th Dan black belt.

The gradings was overseen by Grandmaster Brian Dossett the founder of Spirit Combat.

The event took place over five hours and covered many aspects of the Martial Arts.

These included self-defence, kickboxing and forms.

There were also guest instructors from Aikido and Jujitsu who tested the students on their ability to learn new techniques.

A club spokesman said: "It was a tough grading, which tested the spirit of all who took part."

Meanwhile, at the club gradings in Bridport, 10 juniors and four adults were upgraded.

Reynolds said: "It was a great effort by all involved including the parents who made the trip to Surrey."

The club trains at the West Bay Sea scout hut in St Swithins Road.

Contact Reynolds on 01308 458488/07971183575 or visit the club website bridportmartialarts.org.uk for more information.