PAUL Ellis battled through the pain barrier to secure a place in next month's European Under-21 Championships.

The 18-year-old from Rodmell thought he had broken a finger in the second fight of five in the second and final selection in Birmingham.

But the Kicks Martial Arts Centre light-heavyweight carried on to clinch a spot in England's team.

He said: "It was a little painful and I thought it was broken, although it turned out to be just a dislocation. But there was no question of me not carrying on even though it limited what I could do.

"I was only able use one technique, the backhand punch as the finger was on the hand I use as my guard.

"It was frustrating because I wanted to secure a place as an individual but I'm delighted I was able to do enough to make the team."

Ellis hopes to make up for disappointment last year when an eleventh-hour injury ruled him out of his debut in the Championships.

He said: 'That was a real choker. But hopefully the injury I've picked up this time will be fine by the time the Europeans come around."

What also helped Ellis was a training area, known as a dojo, he has built for himself at home.

He said: "I've sorted out a floor, bags and all the stuff you need and I intend to improve it. It's certainly helping me."

KMAC chief instructor Terry Robins said: "We call him the Terminator because of his ability to shrug off anything. He showed the spirit chief selector Ticky Donovan was looking for in Birmingham. He's a grafter.

"Ticky told me that he felt Paul showed the heart of a lion and was impressed with his improved technique."

"It's a great start to the year for Paul, and Sussex karate. We're delighted for him because he's worked so hard for it.

"He's using his speed and strength to full advantage."

But Richard D'Urso (Lewes) and Martin Lovett (Peacehaven), both 16 and KMAC members, missed out.

Lovett, who had come back from a fractured cheekbone, suffered a pre-selection mishap while training with Ellis who accidently broke his nose.

Robins said: "We all feel for Martin after what he's been through but it was a complete accident with Paul's elbow and Martin's nose colliding.

"But he still went to the selection, although, when his nose started to bleed easily, it was clear he was troubled and he had to stop."

D'Urso was disappointed, but Robins believes he can aim for the World Under-21 Championship and England representative honours this year.

Robins said: "Richard can come back. I just think he might have taken some time off over the holidays and you can't afford to to do that at that level."

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