A karate club in Ham swept the board at a national competition despite only forming six months ago.

Khalsa Karate Association won a total of 15 medals including multiple golds in the girls’ team and individual event at the Kyu Grade National Championships in Leicester on January 14 and 15.

The medal haul means the club, which trains at the YMCA Hawker Centre, in Ham Road, three times a week, are now ranked second in the country.

Teddington School student Sam Whitfield, 13, won four bouts to claim a gold in the 12-13 plus 45kg category.

Sam, who lives in Ham, said: “It was really nerve wracking because there was close to 2000 people in the arena.

“I had to fight my club mate in the final which was very difficult because we are friends.

“Winning was a bit bittersweet because I saw how disappointed she was.

“It was nicer winning the team event because we all got to do that together and there was a feeling of teamwork.”

Sensei Satinder Sehra said: "I am so proud of what the club and association together have achieved.

“Within six months of starting our own association we have become the 2nd best association in the country, something I would never have dreamed of.

“What really makes me proud is that many of the students are from the local community and schools and have all started with the club from a young age.

“Through their hard work, discipline, respect and desire they all achieved amazing results.”

Other medal winners included Jenna Cato, 13, Florence Bradley, 12, Alex James, 15, Lucy May Pettit, 15, Maddie Jones, 14, Emma Plumley, 17, and Zuko Robb, 11.

For information about joining Khalsa Karate, email info@khalsakarate.com