Traditional Japanese Karate in Kingsbridge has named 10-year-old Murray Coulthard from Kingsbridge and eight-year-old Eliot Ely from Stokenham as its karate students of the month for December 2013

and January 2014 respectively.

Coulthard is currently on his orange belt (ninth kyu), which is eight belts away from black in Shotokan karate, while Ely is on his yellow belt (seventh kyu). Both have been loyal students of Traditional Japanese Karate for a considerable time.

'Karate training is accessible to everyone, although it is difficult, not only because of its complexity, but also the commitment required to dedicate yourself to this martial art,' said Traditional Japanese Karate chief instructor Shihan Ash Hawkes, who has been training in karate for more than 38 years. 'I've seen so many people turn up to learn karate and then quit soon after, or when the going gets tough. To stay and work hard week after week, month after month and year after year for no obvious reward takes trust in your teachers and a certain type of character, especially for the youngsters. It's a lot to ask.

'Murray and Eliot have been recognised for their superb etiquette and manners, willingness to learn, commitment to attending and their fighting spirit. It makes me very proud to acknowledge such effort publicly, and both students have  earned a great deal of respect in the dojo.'

Every month Traditional Japanese Karate will announce its student of the month. Anybody interested in learning karate should contact Ash, Jay or

Sal Hawkes on 01548 531808/077925 74745, click on http://www.traditionaljapanese">www.traditionaljapanese karate.com, or find them on Facebook.