A FAMILY of four from Sadberge has proved they are fighting fit by gaining their next belts in taekwondo at the weekend.

Karen Rehman, 39, and her children, 12-year-old Esa, Hameem, 11, and Faria, 7, took up the martial art at Haughton Education Village, in Darlington, less than a year ago.

Hameem was awarded best of grade for his effort, attitude and technique.

They all train under the instruction of Katey Wallace, 5th Dan, and are part of the Chung Do Kwan TKD club.

Ms Wallace said it was a great achievement for the family.:

“It’s so lovely to see them all train as a family despite the age range. Martial arts is all about personal development and to see them all progress as a family is one of the reasons I love teaching.

"Martial art is one of the few activities where families are encouraged to learn together and really get some quality time as a family - it can really strengthen parent, children bonds.

“We have a quite a lot of families of three that train but the Rehmans are the only family of four. Maybe they will all one day be black belts.”

Other Darlington members who passed were: Akos Doszpod, Barbie Doszpod, Gaynor Woodford-Phillips, Adam Coglan, Travis Robson, Danus Viktus, Michael Wood, William Wood, Jessica Wood, Kalina Domoracka, Shannon Hale and Adam Moss.

The Chung Do Kwan TKD club is based in Darlington, Teesdale and Weardale.

It is offering free taster sessions to families and individuals interested in trying martial arts.

Book online at www.chungdokwantkd.co.uk or ring Katey Wallace on 07901 650 796 to find your nearest club.