AN Evesham-based instructor has been handed a leading national award.

Rachel Griffiths-Johnson was named the British Karate Union (BKU) instructor of the year by her peers.

This prize is in recognition of her work with youngsters around Evesham, Pershore and Warwickshire.

The award is voted for by fellow instructors across the country.

Alongside husband Tony, the couple run Master John’s Family Karate.

With over 20 years of experience in various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, Master Griffiths-Johnson is a fourth dan in tang soo do, a Korean martial art, and also enjoys training with a variety of weapons.

She runs a class at Bowbrook House School in Peopleton every Monday from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.

Wyre Piddle Village Hall is the venue for her class on Wednesdays at the same time.

She also holds classes in Stratford-upon-Avon on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Rachel and Tony have also held sessions and trained in the USA and China.