Charlotte Taber won two golds and a silver at the Japan Shotokan Karate Association World Championships in Portugal. Photo: Adrian Judd

Dereham’s Charlotte Taber is already a double world karate champion.

The Neatherd High School pupil is a karate black belt and was selected for the England squad at the Japan Shotokan Karate Association World Championships in Portugal, where competitors from 22 countries took on different disciplines.

Charlotte, competed in individual and team kata – a series of moves – as well as kumite – effectively sparring.

Charlotte won two kata golds and silver in kumite, contributing to the 15-strong squad’s haul of 22 medals.

“It was amazing standing on the podium with everyone cheering as I was awarded my medals,” said Charlotte, who was given the England flag to carry at the closing ceremony.

She took up karate aged five with Eastern Shotokan Karate Association club and mother Elaine said: “She has always been very dedicated in whatever she does but she loves it and is so determined to do well.

“There is a lot of training, so it does take over your life a bit.

“But we are so proud of her, it is just wonderful what she has achieved and the best thing is she enjoys it so much.”

Although karate is yet to be included in the Olympics, there is plenty to be said for becoming a double world champion.

“It really is a phenomenal achievement,” added Charlotte’s mum.