Ananova:

A Scottish pensioner has become one of only seven living people to hold judo's highest rank.

George Kerr, 72, was named a 10th Dan black belt at a ceremony held by the International Judo Federation in Paris.

He is one of only five non-Japanese recipients of the award, which honours his contribution to the sport, reports the BBC.

Mr Kerr, who runs a judo club for 200 youngsters in Edinburgh, said he was "humbled" by the award.

Fewer than 20 people have ever received the honour, which recognises Mr Kerr's contribution to the sport as a competitor, coach, referee and administrator.

Mr Kerr said: "I feel humbled and proud to be the first Scotsman to receive this award.

"I was slightly embarrassed because most of the people that get this award are in their 80s while I am only 72 - and just a young 72 at that."

Mr Kerr, who was an inaugural member of the Scottish Sports Hall of Fame in 2002 and has written several books on judo and its techniques, insisted he had no plans to slow down as he grew older.

He added: "Don't be silly. If you give up, if you retire, you die. I will never retire. I just don't work as hard as I used to work but retiring is not on my horizon.

"I think the sport gives you many things in your life. It teaches you discipline and honesty, many things that can contribute to young kids' lives."