WEYMOUTH Karate Club hosted the annual four-day Shikukai Karate Spring Course at the Osprey Leisure Centre.

Around 50 students from across the UK attended under the watchful eye of chief instructor Sensei Fumio Sugasawa, with a Dan grading held at the end of the fourth day.

The course was held for the fifth year in succession by Pam and Steve Rawson after their move to Weymouth from Chippenham.

“When we came down we thought we could offer a course because we’d held others in Chippenham and everyone seemed to enjoy it,” Steve said.

Karate enthusiasts new and old will get the chance to try the sport again next year during the second Bank Holiday in May.

Steve feels the easiest way to get involved is to attend a session and have a go.

“The best way is to come along and have a try. We have a small children’s club at Weymouth Swimming Club on a Wednesday evening.

“The best thing is to see which club suits what you want to get out of it. It does take time and commitment to achieve a black belt,” he said.

Pam added: “You learn other key skills such as respect, discipline and working with others as well as boosting your confidence. You have to come and work hard, then, when you’re ready, you can take the next grade.”

Two evening classes are held by the duo on a Wednesday evening.

Kids’ classes are from 5.15pm to 6.15pm at the Swimming Club, before a 7.15pm to 8.15pm session for teenagers and above at the Osprey

Leisure Centre.