Amanda in high spirits despite defeat in Greece

Although she lost her fight against the world renowned Heavy Weight Champion and three times European Champion Agnieszka Sypien, she gained much respect on the world circuit.

She did this by showing great fighting spirit, holding her own until the end of the fight and by being the lowest ranked fighter in her category.

Having gone the distance and despite a good show of fighting ability by Amanda, the judge's decision went to the Polish fighter after a punch, on the final bell aimed at the Poles arm was deflected and broke her nose knocking her to the floor.

The punch was deemed by the judges to be an illegal technique as no gloves are worn in the competition and no head punches are allowed. Sypien, who is also ranked first in the world as a heavyweight later went on to fight in the final and win having knocked two more of her opponents out of the competition in the process.

Amanda said: "This was a great experience for me as it has given me some much needed experience and has helped our club gain a lot of respect on the national and international scene.

"It has been an honour to represent my country in such a huge competition against such a talented fighter. I will be competing in Germany next year and I will train even harder in order to bring the title home."

Kyokushin Karate is respected throughout the Martial Arts world as one of the toughest forms of karate, which not only incorporates hand and leg techniques but also utilises various weapon-fighting systems within its training syllabus too.

The club where Amanda trains is the only one of its kind in the north of England and is unique as it is specifically designed for the study of Kyokushin Karate and other Martial Arts.

Anyone interested in becoming a part of the unique club can do so by contacting Adam Walker on 07713 411198 or 01388 810337.

The club thanked sponsors, Workwear Express, The Green Tree Pub, Mayfair Cars, Taylors Newsforce and M.W Anderson for their continued support.