A GRANDMA has proved she is a real force to be reckoned with after becoming the oldest karate kid on the block.

Sue Holding has kicked, chopped and fought her way to become one of East Lancashire’s toughest women.

The 59-year-old has just passed a five-hour assessment to be awarded the coveted karate black belt first dan.

The grandma-of-two, from Blackburn, said: “It was absolutely amazing to get my black belt. It is something I have been working towards for a long time.

“My husband first spotted an advert in the paper four years ago. I thought it sounded a bit different and decided to give it ago.

“When I first started, my stamina was terrible, but everyone at Aspire Martial Arts made me feel really welcome and oblivious of my age.”

The former landlady of the Blackamoor Inn joined the club when she was 55 and has since completed 11 milestones to get to the prestigious black belt stage.

In her final grading, she had to complete a series of moves on the spot, show off specific kicks and punches, complete two routines of moves starting and ending in the same position, controlled sparring and a one-on-one fight followed by a fight against two people at the same time.

Michael Yankey, who owns the martial arts club which has branches in Burnley, Darwen, Padiham and Blackburn, said: “Sue is the oldest student we have at the club. We have more than 300 members.

“She has overcome a lot to gain her black belt which is a real credit to her. The black belt is not an easy milestone to master. She has worked on her stamina and flexibilty and she can easily challenge someone half her age.”

In the months running up to her grading, Sue was training up to five times a week.

She has now reduced her training regime to twice a week.

The customer service manager at Stoneacre Honda, who has two stepsons, said: “I would recommend karate to anyone. I am not a violent person but it is a great way to get fit and relieve stress.

“From the moment I started I realised I loved it.”

Anyone interested in getting involved with Aspire should call 0800 035 1605.