Seven-year-old Liam Veras recovered from an early setback to win seven fights and clinch a gold medal at the Central England Championships in Walsall.

The youngster had fainted earlier in the day, but regained his strength to earn top position on the podium in the boys’ seven and under open grade kumite (fight) category.

His success was mirrored by older brother Luan, who won gold in the nine and under section, conceding only a couple of points over the course of seven rounds as he produced a series of explosive attacks and timely blocks.

There were two other medals for the Veras Academy squad, who train at venues in Islington, Kilburn and Tower Hamlets, with Nicole Hussey turning in three strong performances to win silver in the senior women’s category up to fourth kyu.

Nine-year-old Lulu Brown, competing in only her second tournament, scored with an impressive Jodan Mawashi-geri in each of her three fights to take bronze in the girls’ nine and under open open grade kumite (fight) category.

The squad was completed by three other youngsters – Luke Kavanagh, Archie Gemmell and Luca Veras, who were unsuccessful in their efforts to add further medals.

For more information about Veras Academy training venues and times, visit www.verasacademy.co.uk