A DAD-OF-TWO has become the fourth person in his federation to be awarded one of the highest karate grades.

Kevin Clark, 49, has been awarded a ‘7th dan’ in the combat sport after successfully passing an intense examination.

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Karatekas who reach blackbelt then work towards their their dans, with the highest being the 10th.

The lorry driver trained for the exam and had to perform a routine in front of a panel of judges.

He has been practicing for 43 years, since he first took up the sport at the age of six.

Mr Clark said he was extremely happy when he finally achieved the grade he had spent so long working for.

He said: “The exam was difficult and it was intense so I was really happy to get it over.

“It’s a great feeling to be one of only a handful in the land to have a 7th dan, it requires a lot of time and dedication from an early age to get there.

“It’s a sport that I have been involved with for many years, I enjoy the training, being active and I enjoy the discipline it brings.

“I have met so many people and made so many friends during my time in the sport, it’s been a real passion of mine.”

Mr Clark’s family are also fully bedded into the sport, with his wife, Annette, 46 has her 2nd dan, and their two sons, Gavin, 26, and Callum, 18, have their 4th and 2nd dans.

Mr Clark said: “We all take part in the sport and we use it as a great way to bond.

“The way the dans work, I would have to spend several years training for the next one, to prove I am keeping up with the training.

“I will have to have a think about going for the next one, it’s a big decision.”

Mr Clark is the owner of Blackburn Budokwai Karate Club at Shadsworth Leisure Centre.