KARATE kid Andrew Allan has won his black belt – at the age of 13.

The youngster, from Greenbank, Dalry, trains four times every week under the supervision of Stephen Asbury and Ross McMillan, both coaches from the Garnock Valley Karate Club.

As if this wasn’t enough, most Sundays his father, Kenny, happily drives the youngster to Dunfermline to the HQ of JKS Scotland, the governing body of this particular branch of karate, where the energetic youngster enjoys more karate lessons.

Andrew, a pupil of Garnock Academy, has been involved in the sport for just over three years and thoroughly enjoys the fun, friendship and fitness which it provides.

Last week, he was delighted, at his very first attempt, to earn the coveted black belt – an unusual feat for one so young.  He said: “I love the sport of karate and train hard. I’ve also been involved in many competitions.

"However, getting my black belt at my first attempt was a real prize for me and it will hopefully spur me on to better things.

"I can’t thank my coaches enough for their support and encouragement.” His mother, Lorraine and sister Kirsty are equally proud of Andrew’s efforts and give him all the support they can together with father, Kenny, to ensure that the karate kid of Dalry is able to enjoy his exciting sporting activities.

Although karate tends to dominate his life, Andrew is also a keen musician and plays trumpet in Garnock Academy School Band as well as making sure he keeps his own education uppermost in all he does.