By Andrew Clarke

Last updated 15:56, Wednesday, 30 April 2008

A FORMER three-time European champion is to deliver a weekly kung-fu class in Whitehaven.

Technique: Tony Watson (left) and Chris Anderson demonstrate wing-chun kung fu

Tony Watson is inviting beginners, aged 14 or over, to learn the art of wing-chun kung fu at the classes held at the West Coast Community & Fitness Centre on Whinlatter Road, Mirehouse.

“There are a lot of benefits of learning kung-fu,” says Tony, whose own interest in the sport began by watching Bruce Lee films in the 1970s.

“There is the fitness side of it, but also something positive and productive to put your energy into.

“And there’s obviously the self-defence benefits, which is something handy to have in this day and age.”

The form of kung-fu that Tony will be teaching – wing-chun – is unique in West Cumbria.

“Other forms of martial art focus on contact from a distance. But wing-chun is close-in fighting. It’s more hands than feet and is a real self-defence style.”

With 25 years experience of competing and 15 years teaching behind him, Tony, from Mirehouse, is a 4th black sash, which is recognised as one of the highest awards in the sport, and is currently working towards his masters degree.

“People can come and learn wing-chun simply as an art and get the benefits that way.

“Or there is plenty of opportunity to compete and go quickly through the gradings, which I am qualified to run within the classes.

“It’s entirely up to the individual person to decide for themselves what they hope to get out of it.”

The classes begin on Sunday, May 11 (10am to noon) and cost £3 for a two-hour session. Phone Tony on 01946 693124 for more information.