OXFORD Karate Academy enhanced their reputation both at home and abroad with a successful trip to Italy.

Youngsters from the Academy, which has produced 99 blacks belts since its formation in 1974, collected four gold medals at an international tournament in Turin against competitors from Iran, Sri Lanka, Italy and Belgium.

Leading the way was nine-year-old Charlie Hutton, who claimed victory in both the kata and kumite disciplines.

His elder bother Daniel , 13, also won two medals – gold in kata and silver in kumite.

Oxford’s other gold came from 11-year-old Corin Huth, who won the kumite in his age group as well as picking up bronze in kata.

Blade Coleman, six, collected silver in kumite and bronze in kata.

Blade is the son of 7th Dan Paul Coleman, who runs the Academy along with his wife Natalie.

The 300 members of the Academy compete in many foreign counties, including Japan, as well as at venues nearer to home.

The club, which has two full-time and four part-timecoaches, used to have a base of their own.

But now hold sessions at 11 village and church halls close to Oxford.

Paul Coleman, who is senior European examiner as well as a highly regarded coach, said: “We are also working with the EKF (English Karate Federation) squad for possible Olympic selection in Tokyo, Japan, 2020.

“Karate will be launched as an Olympic Sport in Japan, which is hugely exciting.”

“Meanwhile, we are seeking sponsors for a competition in June in Sardinia.”

Those wishing to help with his venture can contact Coleman on 07956 902101.