KARATE kids Daniel Openshaw and Rebekah Thorley are hoping to give the opposition the order of the boot when they compete in the World Kick Boxing Karate Championships next month.

The two pals, who both live in Bury, have been picked to represent England at the week-long championships in Basle, Switzerland.

Both youngsters took up the martial art less than two years ago and will be fighting the best competitors from 80 countries.

Rebekah (12) will be taking on youngsters up to her own age but Daniel (13) will find himself facing competitors up to the age of 18.

Daniel's father, Jonathan Openshaw, said: "Daniel can do whatever he puts his mind to. He is a very confident lad."

Rebekah's mum, Cath Thorley, said: "I am so proud Rebekah is representing the country. It is a big achievement, considering we sent her to karate because we thought she was a bit soft!

"Since taking up the sport she has become so much more confident, and we know she can look after herself."

Daniel attends Tottington High School and Rebekah is a pupil at St Gabriel's RC High. Both are members of JFT Goulding's Freestylers in Bolton and train with England coaches seven times a week. They were picked for the England squad after competing in the British Kick Boxing Karate Championships.

Both families have had to fund the trip and pay for the England kits and are appealing for sponsors. So far they have had help from Plastic Solutions in Bury, MBS Transport, Radcliffe, Bury Council, former Bury business man Justin Ferris, St Gabriel's RC High, Bolton Gate Company and CK Appliances, Bury, The Swan Hotel, Woolfold, and The Wellington Pub, Bury.

"Thanks to everyone including family and friends who have also helped," said Mrs Thorley, who along with her husband, Ian, and four-year-old daughter, Raegan, will be flying out to support Rebekah.

Mr Openshaw added: "We hope more businesses come forward and sponsor Daniel and Rebekah.

"We have managed to raise money to get them over there but we need money for living expenses."

He will be travelling to Switzerland with with his 12-year-old daughter, Hannah.

Businesses wishing to sponsor the two friends should ring 07949182270.