Kirby has studied JKD for the past four years under the guidance of 2nd Dan instructor Lloyd Lyon.

The criteria for the award are not just about martial arts attainment, but also how students have developed as individuals, and the attitude and effort they put in over a 12-month period.

Lyon said: “Damon has showed great maturity over the year, trained hard every session and taken on an instructor’s role whenever new students visit the club.”

Jeet Kune Do is a mixed martial arts system developed by the legendary Bruce Lee in the 1960s. Students study a variety of arts including kickboxing, grappling and Philippine weapons.

Lyon added: “Damon has proven himself to be a very capable student in all the disciplines and has shown a great understanding of the concepts of JKD and its teachings.”

For more information on the club and training times, visit. www.unitedjkd.co.uk