A Sandbach youngster has become a karate world champion – at the tender age of eight! 

Little Bella Smethurst, a pupil at Elworth Hall Primary School, took part in the World Karate Championships in Dundee at the weekend and took first place in the under 9's section.

And her mum, Natasha Matthews who coaches her, also picked up a bronze medal in the female seniors, meaning both mum and daughter were on the podium collecting medals together.

Now Bella, from Taxmere Close, has won more sponsorship from Sandbach-based B2 Coaching Limited to help her reach even greater heights.

Bella's mum runs the Zenshinryu club at Yoxhall Village Hall in Haslington and trains with Bella, something she encourages other families to do.

Not only did Bella achieve great heights at the weekend, so too did Thea Heys, who Natasha also coaches at her Haslington club.

Bella with her mum and their medals. (Photo: Natasha Matthews)

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"I couldn't believe it when Bella won, not just by a little but by miles. She's absolutely amazing.

 "I don't think it's really sunk in yet. It's something I will never forget."

Last month, Sandbach Nub News told here how Bella became one of the youngest in the UK to get her black belt.

Bella will be continuing her training throughout the summer and faces her next challenge in September at the GB Open Karate Championships in Birmingham.

More details about the Zenshinryu Club are available here