A TRIO of East Lancashire judo players performed well against competitors from all over Britain when the first ranking event of the year took place at Sutton Sports Centre, St Helens.

Bart Marsden fought superbly to remain unbeaten all day for first place and the gold medal in the senior veterans under 73-kilo event - his best-ever performance.

He also earned 30 points towards his second dan.

Joe Burns fought in the over 90-kilo event and managed to take bronze medal and 10 points towards his fourth dan.

John Hope won his preliminary rounds, but was knocked out before reaching the medal rounds.

Len Stables, senior coach (fifth dan) at Shadsworth said that he was extremely proud of the lads as it was an honour just to take part in this national event, however, they went one better and brought back medals, too!

Anyone interested in learning judo can go along and try it at Shadsworth Sports Centre on Tuesday nights: beginners 6-7pm; juniors 7-8pm; seniors and 16 upwards 8-9.30pm.

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