LINKS Karate Kai's Mitchell Thorpe and Charlotte Hope have been selected to represent their country at the Junior Karate European Championships.

Thorpe is a current European silver medalist while Hope is a reigning British champion.

They have been preparing for six months and have dedicated themselves to hours of hard work and training.

Mitchell said: "Having come so close to winning the title last year, nothing will come between me and glory.

"I have worked harder than ever, battling through injury and hope to bring back the gold."

Links coach Paul Harris worked with Thorpe and Hope throughout 2016, dealing with all aspects of their fighting, reaction, attacking and countering.

As the big event approaches, he decided to seek a little extra help from Clacton fitness club The Studio.

The fitness team there were more than willing to help, working on strength and conditioning to help them get the edge over their opponents.

Harris said: "It's been extremely helpful to have the support of The Studio.

"They allowed us to use the facilities whenever we needed them and I'm sure the work they have done will become evident on the big day.

"They have both worked so hard and I know that they will do themselves proud."

The championships are being held in Sofia, Bulgaria, from February 17 to 19.