Croydon karate coach Marlan Anthony praised his fighters’ dedication after they returned from Hungary with the Goju Cup.

It is the first time the UK National Shodokan karate squad, which trains at Trinity School in Croydon, have won the competition.

Six members made the trip to east Europe, and they returned with an impressive haul of seven medals.

Cat Burnett, 20, won double gold and Rebecca Collins, 13, won gold, while Noufi Theodoulou, 20, claimed a bronze.

Putney stars Asuka Peace, 16, won silver and gold, and Bassam Talsi, 26, rounded off the medals with silver.

Anthony said: “I could not be happier with the performance, the dedication and commitment the team has shown to reach such levels is second to none.

“The guys on the squad deserve praise for their performances, especially those that experienced international tournaments for the first time.”