FOUR young fighters have proved they are among the toughest in Europe after medal-winning performances at a martial arts contest.

The four, all students at the Phoenix UK Tae Kwon Do Association, in Langley Park, near Durham, competed against youngsters from across the Continent at the Tae Kwon Mundo competition, in Switzerland.

Three of the team came back with gold medals for Olympic-style, full contact combat: Kate Dixon, 14, of Crook, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham; Robert Overton, 16, of Ushaw Moor, near Durham; and Adam Silleker, 12, of Tow Law, County Durham.

Adam also won a silver medal in the event, while Kate and Robert clinched silvers for self defence.

Paul Isles, of Ferryhill, a Third Dan black belt and the instructor who led the team to victory, said: "I am very proud of them. This is quite an achievement."

Despite his age, Robert fought in the senior category and had to beat a 32-year-old kickboxing champion to win his medal.

Mr Isles said: "We came back with three gold medals for Olympic-style full contact combat and two silver medals for self defence.

"Our students proved that they are as good as the best in the world."

The club's fourth entrant, David Brown, 12, also from Tow Law, had to withdraw after sustaining a minor injury.

Mr Isles said: "David got caught with a back kick and we were worried about him, but he is fine."

Mr Isles runs clubs in Langley Park, Sacriston, Bear Park and Willington, and said: "We believe tae kwon do is for anyone of any age or ability. If they are willing to work hard we are willing to teach them."

For details on how to join, contact Mr Isles on (01740) 652357.