Belting feat for brothers

Thomas and Kristian Hilton

TWO brothers from Lees are celebrating after they reached the grade of junior black belts in Ju-Jitsu.

Thomas and Kristian Hilton, aged 13 and eight respectively, were bestowed with the honour at Friezland Ju-Jitsu Club.

Ju-Jitsu is often bracketed with other forms of martial arts such as karate or kung fu. However, it focuses less on striking an opponent and more on throwing and pinning.

The origins of the fighting form lie with the Ancient Japanese Samurai who saw it as a way of immobilising an opponent, rather than attempting to wound him.

Kristian is one of the youngest black belts in the country and proud father, Matthew, said: “Ju-Jitsu is good for my sons, there are no classes separating ages and sexes so they can go along together.”

The brothers, who have been studying Ju-Jitsu for three years, also represent their respective age groups at Saddleworth Rangers ARLFC.

They will step up to the senior grade at Ju-Jitsu when they each reach the age of 16.