Happy 10th Birthday To Us!

E.S.K.K Martial Arts and Fitness instructors, assistants and key supporters receiving appreciation awards during the night of celebrations.

On Saturday 3rd May, Whitehaven-based group E.S.K.K® Martial Arts & Fitness held their prestigious 10th Anniversary evening at The Whitehaven Golf Club.

Members and supporters all attended to help celebrate their growth and development that over the past decade has seen a single karate class in Arlecdon evolve from a dozen original members, to an internationally recognised association, specialising in providing some of the very best tuition in traditional martial arts and self-defence, functional health and fitness, anti-bullying and life skills for children, plus seminars and courses both here in the UK and overseas.

Since 2004, E.S.K.K® Martial Arts & Fitness have had many people from the local community walk through their doors and take something very positive from their tuition.  They've travelled to Japan on multiple occasions, performed demonstrations and workshops at international expos, plus their regular charity work has seen many thousands of pounds raised for worthy causes.

Founder and Chief Instructor Chris Denwood, who recently gave up a twenty-year career in engineering to teach martial arts full-time said, “It’s simply fantastic to look back and see how much we've all grown together and every single member has had a positive part to play in our history so far.  Plus, with lots more planned for the future, we’re really excited about moving forward into the next decade!”

As part of the evening, special appreciation awards were presented to acknowledge the support of key individuals who have helped make the group what it is today. Fitness and Lifestyle Manager Jenny Ling said, "Our success is the product of dedicated and committed support given by our fantastic team of instructors and assistants.  Our group has always had a special ‘family feel’ about it and it's this close camaraderie that makes us so proud and appreciative."

An auction was also held where funds were raised to add to the groups charity efforts this year, which included a group of ten members, including Chris & Jenny, completing the 40-mile Keswick to Barrow challenge on Saturday. The accumulated total will be presented to the 'Give Us A Break' local charity later in the year.

Special thanks to the local companies who donated products and services for the auction: Swains Hairdressing, Cheryl Hinde Homoeopathy, The Cumberland Lodge Stables & Riding School and Arnold Clark-Carlisle.