IMOGEN Skipper returned to action in fine style to win gold at the HDKI National Karate Championships then helped England to glory.

The 20-year-old from Blacknape, and English Literature undergraduate at Lancaster University, was part of the University team that took part in the championships held at Dudley Leisure Centre.

Although out of competition for many months - and recovering from a recent virus - Skipper drew on her experience as a former junior international to fight her way through to the final.

Skipper, who is a member of Tower Shukokai Karate Club where she is coached by her father Martyn, came out aggressively in the final to take an early lead.

While her opponent soon drew level, Skipper quickly recovered her composure to score the decisive point with her trademark gyakuzuki chudan (reverse punch to the midsection).

Such was her form on the day, Skipper was then selected to represent England in the final match of the day - a five-person mixed team event against Ireland. The Irish team and dominated the individual event so Skipper and her England teammates were up against it.

Going out third with one win apiece, Imogen’s victory gave the lead to the home team who went on to win gold.

Meanwhile 12-year-old Angus McIver of Edgworth took bronze medal in the boys’ kumite event at the Northern Open Championships in Bury.

For details on Tower Shukokai, contact Martyn Skipper martyn.skipper@btinternet.com