Paul Hooke is the first Black Belt to be produced by the Holistic Karate School.

Holistic Karate was set up in 2012 and is still one of the newest martial arts schools in the area, emphasising the traditional benefits of martial art training, yet including modern motivational methods and street psychology for effective (and legal) self defence, so producing its first black belt is a very significant and important milestone for Paul and the school.

Paul was rigorously put through his paces by a panel of three headed by Sensei Graham Mead, 6th Dan, who was one of the original instructors that introduced Karate into the North Somerset area. It was Sensei Mead who opened the first clubs in Coleford and Frome and many of his senior students have since opened up their own clubs.

Holistic Karate instructor, Charlie Wildish, 4th Dan, said: “It was very important to me that Paul’s grading was impartial, thorough and to a high standard second to none. Sensei Mead is one of the highest ranking, most experienced and respected instructors in the region and has inspired probably thousands of practitioners over several generations through his teachings. He’s strict on standards but fair.

“Paul was amongst the first adult students to join Holistic Karate and has always put everything into it. He’s not a natural athlete, but has made up for that with hard work, dedication and determination. It’s been a privilege to work with him.”

Paul, who has trained with several other martial arts schools of different styles before settling with Holistic Karate, said: “I started three years ago and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s a very nice, supportive club and Charlie and Mike have put a lot of time and effort in helping me to get to this and I very much

appreciate it. So, come along and join the fun.”

If you or your children are interested in taking up Karate, then Holistic Karate is doing a special offer that if you join before the end of May, your first month’s tuition fee will be donated to a charity of your choice. For more information, see www.HolisticKarate.com.