HE'S a martial arts master -- and it's official!

That's Droitwich judo ace Austin Fitzgerald, who has been awarded his first Dan, meaning he is now a master in the martial art.

The 37-year-old, who runs Rubery Judo Club at Rubery Community Centre with Mr D Roe, said: "It's taken me a very long time to reach this goal and it's thanks to my coach Mr Roe who has taught me for 27 years.

"You could say I've gone full circle -- it's taken a lot of hard work to get there and the back up of the other instructors at the club who have helped me achieve my goal."

Anyone who would like to join Rubery Judo Club should contact Austin on (01905) 797531.

The club, which meets every Wednesday between 6pm and 8pm, is just 80p per session and welcomes males and females aged five right up to 90-years-old.