A NEWLY-formed karate club in Banff had a successful first grading assessment in Aberdeen with 11 members achieving passes.

Instructor Ronnie Gillies had always been interested in starting a club in the town and formed Phoenix Shotokan Karate in the summer.

He was encouraged that its members did so well at the grading at the Kincorth Sports Centre, with one even managing a double grade pass.

He said: "It was an excellent effort by everyone to go up to the next colour of belt and it was great to have one obtain a double grade.

"The assessment covers three areas, which are set patterned moves, controlled sparring and blocks, punches and kicks.

"They are held every three or four months with the next one in March and hopefully we can get a similar result then."

The club is part of Karate Do Shotokan Scotland, which is affiliated to the Japan Karate Association and has about 20 members.

Mr Gillies is a 1st Dan black belt and is assisted by his son, Scott, and daughter, Ashley, who are also 1st Dans, and Margaret Main who is a 2nd Dan.

He said: "My family has a strong interest in karate and Ashley, Scott and I all achieved our black belts at the same time four years ago in Dunfermline.

"I always wanted to start a club and, in June, I managed to get it together and it has been a great start."

The club trains at Banff Town Hall on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday evenings from 6.15pm for an hour, with a minimum age of eight for members.

"We started off holding it on two nights, but extended it to three, as there was enough interest for it.

"Members don't have to come to every session in a week, it gives an option for them if some nights are better than others. It is up to them and how much training they want to do and how they want to progress.

"We would always welcome beginners and the first sessions are free, so people can try it and see if it is for them."

Anyone interested in joining or requiring more information can contact Mr Gillies on (01261) 815692 or go along to the sessions.