Three members of Mamba Martial Arts returned with their respective IKF English titles, following a junior and senior open championship, which was held recently in Chatham, Kent.

Ipswich Star: Alanah Thompson (14) , Shannon Thompson (9) , Kiera devereux (13)Alanah Thompson (14) , Shannon Thompson (9) , Kiera devereux (13) (Image: Archant)

Shannon Thompson, nine, Kiera Devereux, 13, and Alanah Thompson, 14, were all successful, while their team-mates Sam Collett, 22, and Kye Devereux went close.

Young Shannon was making her debut, not only for the club, but also in the ring and found herself in the final straight away, and in at the deep end.

Showing no obvious nerves, she went out from the first bell and followed every instruction from her corner to put on a great show to become girls’ -25kg English open champion.

As for Kiera, she was focused and knew what had to be done. The fight was a tough one with non-stop action but the Ipswich girl’s fluid movement kept her ahead of her opponent all the way to take the win and the girls’ -45kg IKF English open championship.

Meanwhile, having got through her semi-final in style, Claydon High School pupil Alanah had to do it again in the final. This bout had a lot of action in it with some good kicking from both girls. In the end Alanah’s stamina and conditioning prevailed and she became girls’ -50kg IKF English open champion.

Sam was making his debut fighting for Mamba, which is difficult enough but, as there was no-one else in his weight group, he had to move up to the heavier group.

He had a good three rounds with a good opponent and although he did not win the bout he gave a great account of himself on this big stage.

Finally, Kye, who competed in the first bout of the day, was up against a good fighter from CKA Bailey Petrie. The two lads have met before and each time they have put on entertaining bouts. This was no different.

Both boys went at it from the word go and did not disappoint the crowd with a great little match to start the day’s proceedings off. Kye didn’t get the win but he did himself proud in a very close fight.

Anyone wishing for more information on martial arts should contact:info@mambamartialarts.co.uk; www.mambamartialarts.co.uk; tel: 01473 805728 or 07528682172.