The Oxford Sport & Traditional Martial Arts School returned with a grand total of 18 medals from the first International Karate Union’s World Games for competitors under 20.

Venice was the venue for both the children’s championship for those aged under 14 and the cadet event for those between 14 and 20.

Oxford took a squad of 15 youngsters ranging from seven to 20 years to represent England and gained five golds, seven silvers and six bronzes.

Four of the squad were under ten and the youngest member, Ashton Patrick, seven, earned bronze in his sparring section.

Lara Plested, eight, Chloe Wood and Alisha Pitts, both nine, won two bronzes and a silver between them.

The three girls also had the honour of leading the Karate England team out during the opening ceremony.

The event, which was attended by 16 other countries, and withmore than 800 entries, was a fantastic experience for the whole squad.

Experienced Danielle Lester, from Barton, won all her fights without conceding a single point, to take gold.

Instructors Paul Wood, Phil Patrick and David Plested coached the squad, who were supported by number of parents and family members.

Wood said: “It was an incredible medals tally considering the age of some of the competitors and the nature of the event.”

Oxford Sport & Traditional Martial Arts School has an impressive membership with more than 1,500 competitors across Oxfordshire and surrounding counties.

Those wishing to take up the sport should contact Paul Wood by emailing pwoodmartialarts@btinternet.com.