THREE local Taekwondo fighters backed up their earlier successes this year when they picked up medals in the British Championships held at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester last weekend.

Dion Richardson won Gold in the Male 65kgs against his main competitor who had recently fought at the World Cadet Championships.

Due to eligibility issues, Richardson was not able to compete in those championships but victory last weekend kept up his record of being unbeaten against British fighters in the last 12 months.

His fine work has been rewarded by being awarded a place in the National Academy.

Another bright talent is Conor Kipping who took Gold in the -53kgs, beating all three opponents by way of stoppage.

Kipping overpowered all his opponents with head shots to gain a well deserved win after fighting back from his broken toe in July.

Ryan Richardson achieved third place and consequently a bronze medal after winning his quarter-final with a superb display of speed and strength.

The promising youngster came up against a much taller opponent in the semi-final and struggled against his leg strength, though hopes are high for Richardson with him being the youngest of the three promising stars.

Andy Kipping has been coaching the youngsters for three years, taking them around Europe to compete.

He paid tribute to the boys after their success in Manchester and believes it is what they deserve after their hard work and dedication.

“ I am very proud of the boys’ achievements,” he said. “Taekwondo is a sport where you definitely get what you deserve.

“The early mornings, the strict dieting and the strategic work has massively paid off “The boys were all watched by the GB coaches and our aim is to get all three on a pathway to being able to compete for GB at Europeans and World Championships.” **PICK up a copy of the Observer, out now, for all the latest sports news and action** **FOLLOW the Observer on Twitter at @Observer_sports**