THE reputation of the Brotherhood Tae Kwon Do Foundation rose another notch this week as two of its adult members became fourth Dan black belts.

Kevin George and Tony Butcher, part of the organisation which trains at locations in Eastcote, Ruislip, Ickenham and Northolt, travelled to Mansfield for their exam under the watchful eye of Grand Master Park Soo Nam and other members of the British Tae Kwon Do control board.

The duo achieved high levels of competency in the four different disciplines required to achieve their fourth Dan status. These are Poomsae' (forms), self-defence against both armed and unarmed attackers, sport fighting under Olympic rules and power testing, involving breaking wooden boards.

Con Halpin, himself a sixth Dan, and long-time trainer of the two men, said their promotion was just reward for their years of dedication to the sport.

He said: "Both Tony and Kevin had been training intensely for the four months leading up to the grading day and we really tested them over that period of time.

"In reality, though, both had been preparing for this day from when they first stepped into the training hall two decades ago.

"I'm sure there were days when they may have preferred to stay at home, but they got themselves down to the club and gave 100 per cent at every training session.

"They are an excellent example to their own students and to anyone who is looking for a class to join."

Butcher teaches in Ickenham, while George runs classes in Eastcote, Ruislip and Northolt, catering for youngsters aged five and above in all different aspects of the martial arts. 

If you want to learn self-defence and get fit, find out all at www.brotherhoodtkd.co.uk .