A WHITEFIELD karate instructor was pleased as punch after winning the "sporting hero" title at the inaugural Pride of Bury Awards.

Darren Barber, knows as "Daz", is co-owner of KSD Karate in Victoria Lane which opened its doors five years, and has been dedicated to the true spirit of traditional karate and martial arts for more than 30 years.

Winning the sporting hero category, he had also been nominated for the "community hero" and "caring hero" awards, which were held at the Village Hotel in Bury, in memory of inspirational teenager Joshua Wilson who died a year ago at the age of 14.

The awards, which attracted more than 200 guests, were organised by Joshua's mum, Dawn Fidler, and Samantha Gibbs, from the Village Hotel.

Senior member at KSD Karate, Jonathan Goldstone said: "Daz realises that the club is not simply a place where people come and practise martial arts, but it is a family. He is an excellent teacher and his encouragement never wanes and he wants to ensure that every member of the club achieves his or her potential. Quite simply, without him, the club, the family would not exist.

"It is not just the adults who Daz cares for, he is especially dedicated to the children he teaches, especially underprivileged kids who he teaches free of charge.

"Aware of the anxieties that many young people have, and the confidence which karate can give them, his commitment is truly inspirational".

The club boasts more than 110 members.

Daz 's nomination described him as "a real family man and his passion shines through and encourages others to follow his discipline."

* Another Whitefield success in the Pride of Bury Awards was Nicola Richards, who won the "teaching hero" title.

The teacher at Elms Bank Specialist Arts College works with children who have profound and multiple learning difficulties. She was singled out for going above and beyond, both with children and parents alike, creating a fun, caring and supporting environment to encourage children in all ways.