THIS half-term, most 13-year-olds have been enjoying their break from school, not Esmee Holgate who will instead be training in Paris after gaining successive medals for England in judo.

Holgate, who trains at the Craven Judo Academy with ex-judo fighter Danny Harper, gained a silver medal and a bronze in the 52kg junior category at the International Open in Holland.

After moving up to the new weight division, Holgate did extremely well to adjust and overcome the difference in size.

The young fighter took up the sport when she was eight and has since represented her club, county and country.

It is her hard work and determination that has led to Holgate's success', training six days a week and neglecting her social life, to ensure peak physical and mental condition.

Holgate's mother, Cherry, claims her tough training regime helped gain the medals and praises her coaches for their help.

She said: "The fights were tough, and the girls were a real challenge and pushed her to her limits.

“Her vigorous judo training, together with her training of strength and conditioning and weight training by Tomi Tatham, at TNT of Ingleton, made her equipped to deal with the new opponent’s natural weight and age advantage over her.”

After her multiple achievements, Holgate was straight back into training and hopes she can achieve her Olympic dream in the future.

Holgate is looking for a sponsor and would welcome any support. For more information, call Cherry Holgate on 07759 019232.