A TALENTED brother and sister team are looking forward to representing their country at karate.

Teenagers Aaron and Abigail Tarleton Hodgson live in Kirkby Fleetham and attend Bedale High School.

Both became involved in Wado Kai/Ryu style of karate at a young age.

Their PE teacher, Martyn Coombs, said both are very dedicated and enjoy the sport and the realisation that progression is dependant upon hard work and commitment.

They both train locally, at Kobukan Karate Club, in Middleton St George, near Darlington.

Both have been selected as part of the England squad to compete in the 37th European Wado Kai Karate Championships, to be held in Dublin later this month.

Mr Coombs said: "Both are really dedicated to their chosen sport and have spent many hours getting to the level they have reached.

"It is amazing that they have qualified for the European Championships for their country in Dublin next month but there are huge cost implications for the pair of them.

"They are actively seeking sponsorship from individuals or local businesses to help them in their quest for European glory.

"If there are any benefactors out there, we would be delighted to hear from them."

The school can be contacted on 01677-422419.