THE LIFE of a Bury martial arts expert has been celebrated during a special ceremony. Mr Chris Hopkinson (72), who ran the Bury Judokwai Club, based at the Mosses Centre in Cecil Street, died on January 4, after being ill for some time.

The black belt sensei, or master, was still teaching pupils up to two years ago, but ill health forced him to step down at the end of last year.

The special event at the Mosses Centre on Saturday (Feb 7) was a tribute to Mr Hopkinson, who set up his first judo club in Whitefield in 1957.

Skilled Iaido swordsmen performed the cutting of the dojo which signified allowing the spirit of Mr Hopkinson to move on while clearing the air for the new leader, George Launders.

Mr Hopkinson's wife, Beryl, was guest of honour and a display by the club's members followed the ceremony.

Mr Ian Hinze, secretary at the club, said: "The day went really well. Mrs Hopkinson enjoyed the performances and Councillor Trevor Holt, who was present, said he was thinking of making his grandson a member after seeing the displays."

Coun Holt, a member of Bury East area board, also presented a cheque for £1,790 from the board's Kickstart fund to be used for new equipment.

The money will be utilised to attract people from the Bury East community to join in the club's activities.

The club hopes to attract people from all walks of life and from all nationalities and religions, including people with special needs.

One of the projects being planned is the purchase of a special mat to allow club members to train people in wheelchairs to defend themselves if they are thrown out of the chair -- for example in an attack by a mugger.

Coun Holt said: "I am delighted that through awarding this Kick Start money the Area Board can help the club to further develop.

"I applaud the dedication and hard work of the club's members in providing sporting facility that will really benefit all sections of the Bury East community."