A KICKING machine from Durrington has received a stupendous accolade in the world of martial arts.

Master Ray O’Neill was promoted to the highest rank – 9th Dan, IX Degree Grand Master – in taekwondo.

It means, at 55 years old, O’Neill becomes the youngest ever person to receive such a prestigious and high rank in the sport.

He was presented with the certificate by First Grand Master and world famous taekwondo pioneer Rhee Ki Ha at a special seminar in Stonehenge Taekwondo School.

The school, which is the third longest-running taekwondo school in the UK, first opened in 1974.

O’Neill took over seven years later, and has never looked back.

For more information about the school, visit stonehengetaekwondo.com