MARTIAL ARTS: MEMBERS of the Saltney-based Full Circle Martial Arts Academy (Genbukan Horin Dojo) have been successful in recent competitions.

Chief instructor Ian Thomas won an open tournament for Fukuro Shinai, which is sword fighting with split bamboo swords encased in a leather sheath, but without wearing armour.

Ian, who is chief instructor of the Saltney Full Circle Martial Arts Academy, has the Asayama Ichiden Ryu Aikijutsu Founding School of Aikido's Highest Grade in UK.

Nathan Wood received a title of Renshi, a high-level title awarded as a teaching licence and a test of spiritual resolve, while Jane McCartney was crowned champion in an open Kumite (sparing) event.

Asayama Ichiden Ryu is a very old Aikijutsu school that was the founding style of modern Aikido. These titles are very rare outside of Japan and Ian Thomas is the only holder of the Chuden Menkyo title in Europe. Further details about the academy are available on 01244 680065. The awards handed out were:

Ian Thomas Chuden Menkyo - Advanced Grade

Nathan Wood Shoden Menkyo - Advanced Grade

Nathan Wood Renshi (teaching licence) Ian G Thomas Fukuro Shinai Champion

Jane McCartney Open Kumite champion