SIX years of dedication have paid off for a Sutton-in-Craven man who has just been awarded a black belt in karate - at the age of 69.
Desmond Daly achieved the top grade in shotokan karate as a member of the Bradford Shinboku Karate Club, which meets at St Peter's Church Hall, Main Street, Cross Hills.
Fellow club member Steve Elrick, of Cross Hills, has also been awarded his black belt.
The club's chief instructor Ken Lawn said: "A black belt is a fantastic achievement for both Des and Steve, but especially for Des at the age of 69. We are very proud of them both.
"The club takes people from aged about 14 upwards, but most of the current members are seniors. The emphasis is on close quarter combat and self-defence, and is not competition motivated."
Ken, 72, started the club 34 years ago and runs it with senior instructor Colin Greenwood. Sessions are every Thursday and start at 7.30pm for 90 minutes.
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