Lisa Birch, 15, earned herself a place in the Eastern Counties team at the national judo trials later this year when she took the over 63k gold medal at the BJA Ipswich Under 20's Championships on Sunday.

Lisa, a blue belt who trains at Witham Judo Kwai, threw the current northern home counties champion in the semi final with a shattering counter, and went on to beat a brown belt in the final with a throw and a holding.

The event attracted a team from Holland and players from several neighbouring counties.

Lisa, who lives in St Mary's Road, Braintree, goes to Alec Hunter High School. She took up judo more than 10 years ago.

Coach John Peachey (second Dan) said: "She's the most laid back player I know until she gets on the mat. Then she comes to life and her opponent has a fight on her hands.

"She often trains with men at the club -- and beats them!"

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