TWENTY years ago Christine Knight suffered from asthma so badly that even the lightest exercise was beyond her.

Any attempt to play sport would leave her red-faced, out of breath and reaching for her asthma inhaler.

But, at the age of 28 and after an unhappy experience in an abusive relationship, Christine decided it was time to overcome her problems.

And now two decades later, she has completed a remarkable achievement by winning one of the highest karate awards possible.

Christine took up the sport after deciding it was time to defend herself.

She attended her first lesson at the old Civil Service Club in Holland Road, Hove.

At first, she thought she had made a big mistake.

The mother-of-two recalls: "I knew I had to sort myself out and protect myself.

"That was the real motivation.

"But when I started I could only train for ten minutes at a time.

"I used to go absolutely pink.

"I was in agony and used to have to gasp for breath but I knew I had to keep going."

Under the guidance of instructor Mike Brady she underwent a tough training regime, and gradually the sessions became easier.

Today, Christine's asthma is gone - and the former Dorothy Stringer School pupil has just been awarded her 4th Dan.

Christine, of Overhill Gardens, Patcham, had achieved black belt status in 1984, said: "I never ever dreamed in a lifetime that I would get this far.

"I knew I had to succeed because I had to do something about my situation.

"Learning karate was the most difficult thing I have ever done.

"It took a lot of motivation and training but I found it was something I really enjoyed doing."

Christine, who works at the TSB bank in Brighton, added: "The karate group are like a family to me.

"Everyone is so friendly you never feel out of place.

"I really feel part of something special when I go."

She has nothing but praise for her instructor Mike Brady, whom she now works alongside as an instructor at Littlehampton Swimming Centre where they train twice a week.

Christine, 48, said: "Mike has simply been brilliant.

"He has taught me so much and has always been there for me.

"I couldn't have done any of these without his support."

Christine's mother Dorothy Hanka is full of admiration for her daughter's achievements.

Dorothy, of Surrenden Road, Brighton, described her daughter as a "brave, determined and dedicated young lady".

She said: "There were times when she could hardly breathe but she persevered against all the odds."

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