KARATE kid Danny Metcalfe is celebrating after becoming a junior champion.

The 12-year-old, from Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, is unbeaten in three years and fought over three rounds to beat James Dixon, from Manchester, in the recent NASCKC Junior Grand Karate Championship.

Danny, who is a first dan black belt, has been training for six years under the guidance of wado-ryu karate instructor Dave Lancaster.

He has set his sights on the world championships and has been selected for the England junior team, but needs sponsorship to make his dream come true.

The youngster has already won 44 trophies and now hopes to take his martial arts talents on to the international stage.

If you can help with sponsorship, contact Mr Metcalfe on (01325) 313357, or 07866 154367.

* There will be more about Danny in The Northern Echo's sports supplement, Local Heroes, which is distributed on Friday.