Paul Alford was a 5th kyu when he joined the Clacton club in 1994, having started karate in 1979 and trained under Enoeda Sensei and Charlie Naylor. Paul obtained his black belt in 1999.

Coming from a strong KUGB background, Paul maintained his strong techniques throughout his grades and has continued to exhibit the attributes required of a Dan grade, which he was awarded in 2000. As well as giving instruction in the class, Paul regularly teaches individual students allowing them to have “one to one” instruction to help perfect technique. Paul was certified as an Assistant Instructor in 2003 and was promoted to 2nd Dan in December 2004.

Jackie first came to the club to bring her son Nigel to learn karate and it was long before she was persuaded to take the register and balance the money which she undertook willingly and well.

Some time later Jackie other son Graham showed an interest and Jackie took the opportunity to take part herself. Like her son’s, Jackie took to the art like a “natural” and progressed at a steady rate to Dan grade. Jackie has been a regular teacher at the clubs and has helped many students through their grades and gain accolades at all levels.