A KARATE amateur who trains in Winchester has become a world champion in his category.

Vernon Stewart, 47, was stunned by his success, having taken up the martial art less than three years ago.

"I trained hard and worked hard enough, but I was very surprised to win.

"I was happy just to qualify for the world championships after entering the South East championships and coming third."

Stewart took up Go-Kan-Ryu karate - a discipline created around 20 years ago - back in January, 2005. It is designed to be a non-contact discipline, with exponents throwing punches and kicks, but stopping short of striking their rival.

Stewart faced five opponents - three Britons, one Australian and one American - and sent them all packing. He was taking part in the over-45s section, and his unbeaten record made him the category winner.

He received a gold medal for his efforts, and now plans to tackle the national championships in London later this year.