Phil Powell awarded 5th Dan black belt

HEREFORD karate man Phil Powell was recently awarded his 5th Dan black belt during a visit to Monterrey, Mexico.

Powell, aged 50, endured eight hours training in one day before attempting the two- hour black belt exam alongside fellow Brit Steve Bolland.

Both men demonstrated their expertise before Japanese master Kunio Murayama 8th Dan at the Shito-Kai Headquarters in Monterrey.

This was the pair's fourth visit to Monterrey to train with the master along with fellow karate man Brian Jarvis, also from Hereford.

The karate trio, who founded the Shushinkai karate association just three years ago, have now been recognised by the WSKF (World Shitoryu Karate Federation).