A blind martial arts enthusiast from Bushey is hoping to win her green belt next week.

Jessica Marshall, 10, who lives on Bushey Meads Lane, has been climbing the ranks of Ju-Jitsu since she was six, despite being completely blind.

She has recently won an award for courage, presented to her at a black tie dinner attended by 300 people.

Her trainer Mark Haydn-Smith said: “It makes very little difference to her whether she is throwing her partner or being thrown or grappling on the ground, she takes it all in her stride.

“I feel very proud of her when she takes her grading for a new belt because I know she will remember the techniques and pass the test with flying colours.”

Jessica will be taking the grading for her green belt on Friday, November 6, which will put her in the middle of the grading system.

She said ““Ju-Jitsu is a very enjoyable martial art. I have learnt many skills and lots of self defence techniques.

“It’s a great way to meet friends and do some exercise, I would like to keep going and work up into the senior group”

Jessica trains with Ishin Ryu Ju-Jitsu at The Bushey Grove Leisure Centre.

Jessica's mother Jo Marshall said: “We are extremely proud of the achievements Jess has made at Ju-Jitsu.

"She has made many new friends and works hard for the hour learning new techniques and working towards the gradings.”

For more information on Ju-Jitsu, contact Kevin Pell on 01953 483795, email info@ishinryu.com or visit the website at www.ishinryu.com