BRADFORD'S Azar Farooq Rehman has been awarded a prestigious 6th Dan black belt in kickboxing.

The martial arts ace received the honour at the World Association of Kickboxing Organisations National Championship in Nottingham.

WAKO president Peter Edwards presented Farooq with the accolade in recognition of his commitment and devotion to the sport.

Farooq, who has been involved in the sport since the age of 10, gained his first degree black belt at 18.

He has won numerous national tournaments but passing on his expertise to children is something he has particularly cherished.

He teaches the martial art through his Azar Farooq Kickboxing classes, which he holds at various locations across Bradford including Girlington and Frizinghall.

Farooq said: "When a child has that confidence from the sport this is an achievement that is there forever. This is an honour to help enable them to gain this great achievement."

He added: "I would like to thank all my family, friends and sponsors that have supported me through out the years."

For more information on his classes, visit azarfarooqkickboxing.co.uk

HARRY WILLIAMS