And he has set his sights on following in his brother and father's footsteps and teaching the sport in the future.

Robert Prior, from Bracklesham Bay, said: "I had to do a lot of training to get here, but it was worth it.

"The panel put me through my paces, but it was great to eventually get the belt.

"Karate is my hobby and something I really love doing, and one day I'd love to go into the teaching side of things like my dad and my brother."

Robert – a member of the Chichester Karate Club – was awarded the belt at the end of an intensive three-day training course in Birmingham.

He was graded in front of a panel internationally-recognised instructors and is only the 12th person in the 34 year history of Chichester Karate Club to be successful at this level.

His father Alan, who also coaches Robert, said: "Robert started training when he was eight years old and has been committed to his training which has enabled him to achieve black belt at 16, the youngest age that the senior black belt can be awarded.

"We are all extremely proud of him."

If you're a youngster eager to emulate Robert's fantastic achievements, or of a slightly more advanced age and fancy giving karate a try, the Chichester Karate Club holds junior training on Wednesday evenings and senior training on Friday evenings.

For more information and details of how to join the club, please contact Alan Prior on 01243 672 589.

- ADAM CARROLL-SMITH