The spotlight was on Sophie Johnstone when she became a British junior champion for the first time.

The 16-year-old, from Southwick, claimed the British Judo Association under-48kg crown at Willesden on bright yellow matting in a blacked out auditorium as organisers added razzamatazz to the event.

She defeated Sarah Wright (Essex) in the final with an ippon, making it gold at last in the under-20 event after two silvers and a bronze in previous years.

Sophie, who wore a blue suit instead of the traditional white 'gi', said: "I enjoyed the whole experience. It felt more like a world championship or Olympics. It was a prestigious event and the winners are earmarked to represent Britain in the big events in a few years time.

"It added to the drama and, although I was nervous, I enjoyed being in the spotlight."

Sophie has twice been British cadet champion and is a former national schools title holder.

She said: "I'm delighted to get the gold medal at last. I was pleased with my performances because I got four ippons all together."

Lizzy Welsh (Brighton), 16, claimed a bronze medal at under-52kilo.

Spencer Bennett, nine, from Joff (Peacehaven), won a silver medal in the British age-banded under-28kilo event. He is a pupil at Newlands (Seaford).