A 12-YEAR-OLD Hoyland girl’s taekwondo skills have bagged her a spot in Team GB.

Lydia Fraser, from Springwood Road, trains with Lion Taekwondo at Kirk Balk school.

Dad Mark said: “When you think of taekwondo, you think of fighting. But there is a big element called Poomsae which is actually a pattern of movements, kicks and punches. That’s what Lydia does.”

Lydia has competed in Basingstoke, Harrogate and Sheffield and her next event is the Great Britain Poomsae international competition in London.

Talent scouts for Team GB picked Lydia up during her competitions.

“It has been quite quick. Usually they have to go to talent identification sessions all over the country, but luckily the head of GB Poomsae was on the grading panel for one of her belts and she has been seen early.

“She absolutely loves it and is so dedicated, training three or four nights a week and once a month with the GB squad in London and Manchester,” Mark added.

“She is absolutely brilliant and me and her mum couldn’t be prouder. Her aspiration is for the worlds in Taipei. This year we are aiming for the Europeans and next year, the championships.”

Lydia is looking for sponsorship. For more information email della@liontaekwondo.co.uk.