Thaxted Dragons stood tall at a prestigious karate tournament and came home with some incredible results.

The club took 13 young students to Antibes in France for the World Union of Karate-Do Federations European Championships and brought back one silver and two bronze medals.

The championships are steeped in tradition and bring competitors from all over Europe, with more than 30 countries and over 2,000 fighters involved.

The children got to experience a traditional opening ceremony parade before getting stuck into an intense competition.

Sensei Barry Healy said: "I am very proud of my team. They are a young squad but showed skills, passion and courage far greater than their years.

"They have all trained hard, showed commitment and did everything I asked of them.

"We were not outclassed in any category and will continue our training for future UK and European events.

"To bring back three medals at such an event puts Thaxted firmly on the karate map."

The ages of the squad ranged from six to 15 years and the team attend the likes of Joyce Frankland, County High, Thaxted Primary, Great Sampford Primary and Debden Primary schools.

A spokeswoman for the club said: "Karate encourages children to step outside their comfort zone and try new things as they progress through their karate journey.

"Children will carry this strength with them through their lives, equipping them with the self-confidence to deal with challenges thrown their way."

Anyone wanting to have a free trial lesson should call Barry Healy on 07522 067 436 or go to www.facebook.com/thaxteddragons/