Youth Judo: Katy is Britain's best

She defeated Charlotte Price (Midlands) with two wazaris and an ippon in the 16-17 years under-48kilo final.

International Katy, 16, a former national schools' winner, said: "It is my best achievement in judo.

"The final was tough and I'm delighted to have got through it."

She is also pleased for her club Zodiac (Hastings).

"They are only a small club and we have had quite a bit of success. I'm one of four in the national junior squad."

She only took up the sport four years ago, but now she has big plans.

"I got into judo to help develop my self defence skills.

"I haven't needed to use them outside of judo but they've certainly come in useful on the mat.

"There's a lot of sacrifice involved because it is a demanding sport but it is something I feel I have to do.

"I've got ambitions to be European champion and perhaps go to the Olympics and to do that you've got to tell friends sometimes 'I'm not coming out with you tonight because I've got judo tomorrow'."

Her next target in he national youth trials in Stoke on December 14.

"I'm in the national squad for under-18s so this is a step up," she added.

Katy revealed that no one at her school knows about her success in the sport.

The Bexhill College pupil said: "I don't want to seem big- headed."

Her triumph has earned praise from county coach Dave Wright He said: "It was an impressive performance because she has to compete through the Sussex and regional sections.

"She's been up against some good players but has shown her strength and ability.

"Katy is someone you expect to win medals.

"We've had some good junior players in the county in recent years like Sophie Johnstone and Lizzy Welsh who are very dedicated and are now full-time players. So hopefully Katy can continue to do well too."

Katy's clubmate Keiron Church claimed the under-55kilo silver for boys aged 12-13 years.

Ben Flaherty (Parkfield, Eastbourne) won an over-60kilo bronze in the same age group.