A Derry woman has made history in Judo by becoming the first person from the city with a learning disability, autism and cerebral palsy to achieve their black belt.
Roisin Doherty began her judo training 10 years ago as part of a summer scheme ran by the charity Destined, which helps people with learning disabilities and promotes social inclusion.
Roisin told MyDerry: "We began taking self defence classes as part of the summer scheme. Jim Toland then asked if any of us wanted to start Judo lessons, so a few of us did. I have been training ever since.
"At the beginning, everyone in the group had learning difficulties so it was great for us to start picking up new skills. After a few years we integrated into an existing class with people who do not have learning disabilities.
"One thing I love about the lessons is that everyone is equal. It does not matter if you struggle with anything or have a learning difficulty, everyone is treated as equal in the class."
Roisin was thrilled when she was recently awarded her black belt in Judo. She said: "It is still a shock, I was not expecting to get my black belt so soon.
"It is not an easy sport. I have been training every Monday and Thursday, I never miss a training session and if there is a competition I put myself in for it.
"Getting the black belt was amazing. It just proves that hard work pays off. The team and coaches are amazing and the support has been fantastic since the start."
Roisin told MyDerry how important she thinks self defence and Judo classes are for people, particularly for people with learning disabilities.
She said: "I think it is important to learn these skills. We can be seen as more vulnerable than most people, and if someone decided to take advantage of that it is important that we have the confidence to defend ourselves.
"With my cerebral palsy and learning difficulties it means I cannot do certain moves or need things explained more. But in the classes that does not matter, the coaches are always happy to help and make sure we do not miss out on anything.
"I want to say thank you to Destined, if they did not do the work they do I could not have had this opportunity. They are amazing, they want to see people with learning disabilities fully integrated and treated as equal.
"I want to thank Jim and the other members. They have all been amazing and I could not have done this without them."
Roisin encourages everyone to take up classes such as self-defence or judo. She said: "You never know if or when you will need the skills you gain from these classes.
"They are brilliant even for building self-confidence. I was so shy before I started these classes, they built my confidence so much.
"I think everyone should try something different. If it is not for you then that is fine, but it is always good to try something new."
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