Kick boxer Charlotte Rowley has clinched a World Junior Championship place.

The eight-year-old from Rustington claimed a bronze medal at the British Championships to qualify for the jamboree in August in Italy.

The St Wilfred's pupil celebrated the anniversary of her introduction to the sport by taking the under-30kilo event at Manchester She said: "I feel good and very proud to have won a bronze medal. I'm happy, pleased and excited to be in the world championships."

Her father Ian revealed success for Charlotte, who attends the London Predators Club in Worthing, is a double-edged sword.

"The trip to Pisa will cost more than £1,300 because members of the team without sponsorship have to pay for themselves. And because she is so young she needs a guardian to go with her.

"I hope it won't mean she misses out on the trip because she is so looking forward to it."

Her dad claims the sport is safe.

He said: "People who haven't seen it may think it is dangerous, but that are so well protected and the contact is minimal. She loves it."