A FATHER and daughter from Wilmslow have achieved the rare feat of passing their ju-jitsu black belt grading on the same day.

Danny Angell and his 12-year-old daughter Phoebe Rowe sealed the deal at an event staged in Ellesmere Port.

“They both did exceptionally well which is a true reflection of all the hard work they’ve put in over the last five years,” said Bushido Ju-Jitsu Academy owner and coach, Julie Smith.

“Not only have they worked their way through the intensive grading system, sometimes training six times a week, they have also attended many courses and competed at national and international competitions.”

The pair are such an asset to the club in the way they roll up their sleeves to help others, too.

“Danny also helps out with our juniors class and Phoebe helps out with our younger members in Little Warriors, and her little brother also trains in ju-jitsu,” added Julie.

“It’s wonderful for us to see families like this enjoying ju-jitsu.

“Danny has said as a parent he is very pleased his children enjoy ju-jitsu as he feels it’s important for them to do something positive with their time and he’d like to see more children take part in martial arts because he appreciates all the benefits it offers.”

More of the club’s coaches are full of praise for the efforts of Danny and his daughter, too.

Andy Smith said: “We are immensely proud of Danny and Phoebe – their commitment, focus and dedication is inspiring.”

And Sara Harris, Phoebe’s instructor, said: “I am very proud of Phoebe and all her hard work and I’m looking forward to seeing Phoebe’s little brother Alfie get his junior black belt in the not too distant future.”