TWO Preston brothers have kicked and chopped their way to success after being selected for the England squad to take part in a top championship in America.

Conrad Carter, 11, and his brother Jerome, nine, of Thistlecroft, Ingol, have been learning karate skills for three years and practice the martial art every day in their bedroom.

And last month the boys' hard work paid off when they were picked from hundreds of hopefuls up and down the country to jet off to Las Vegas to grapple with some of the world's top karate youngsters

But before the lads can head off to the USA their parents need to raise around £5,000 and are looking for donations and/or sponsorship to make their children's dream a reality.

Their mother Jackie Brown said: "I'm so pleased for them as they have both worked really hard.

"But as there are two of them we want to make the trip as a family. It's expensive and I've told them there will be no Christmas presents this year.

"We are all clubbing together to get sponsors but it's a lot of money so any help at all would be appreciated."

The lads will be tested again on June 16 and given a higher class of belt for an improved performance. They hope to reach the final black-belt stage shortly.

To sponsor the boys or donate money toward their trip call Jackie on 07751304044.