MARTIAL arts students in Darlington enjoyed a visit from three grand masters from Korea.

More than 140 dedicated taekwondo students travelled to the Kim Chung Do dojang, in Gladstone Street, at the weekend to attend seminars taught by the masters.

Grand Master Kim Yong Ho, a ninth dan in taekwondo, Master Lee Eun Jong, who specialises in Hapkido, and Master Kim Sang Tae, a meditation master, each held a three-hour seminar.

Master Ron Brennan, chief instructor of Kim Chung Do, was also promoted to sixth dan over the weekend by Master Ho.

He said: "We have all learnt so much this weekend and the masters have been really well supported. The knowledge these men have is amazing and for them to come here to Darlington to teach us is an honour."

During his visit to Darlington, Master Ho also hosted the black belt grading and the following students were promoted to first dan: Sean Argyle, 11, Daniel Lovejoy, ten, Kim Roberts, 17.

Matthew Walker, 15, was promoted to second dan and Emma Roscher, 13, and Janice McAuley, 25, achieved their third dan.

For more information about Kim Chung Do call (01325) 241144.