Online comparison specialists theidol.com has extended its sponsorship of a Penrith sportsman.

Jed Thompson, 17, is currently ranked 30th in the world for his class in karate.

He was sponsored by the firm last year and theidol.com, based at Penrith’s Eden Business Park, has agreed to back him for another 12 months.

Fighting off the competition earlier this summer to achieve first place at the Central England Karate Championship in Worcester, Jed hopes to be selected later in the year for the World Championships in Chile.

He juggles his job as an apprentice for a builder’s merchant with his packed schedule travelling the world in karate competitions.

He said: “With karate competitions, everything is self-funded, from travel to accommodation and entrance fees.

“So, when competitions can be as far away as Russia, it can get very expensive.

“It’s great to know I have support from theidol.com.”

Paul Tyson, managing director at theidol.com, said: “Jed’s passion for karate is clear to see, and to achieve what he has at just 17 years old is testament to his determination and commitment to the sport.

“It’s a pleasure to support someone as talented and down to earth as Jed, so we’re all rooting for him to make it to the world championship!”

He added that for theidol.com, which is home to online comparison brands including Compare Cover, the sponsorship marks an ongoing commitment to support the local community.

Jed’s love for karate began when he was six, when he would train at Penrith Leisure Centre with coach Mark Holding.

Jed said he was inspired by his father Ian.

Ian is also a keen karate enthusiast who trains to world championship level and travels with Jed to competitions across the world.