On Saturday 27th April Master Nicholls traveled down to the Bristol area for what now have become our Bi-annual Region 7 seminar, grading & banquet. Master Don Deedigan was also in attendance to give his usual support to the region & Master Nicholls.
The session was well supported with around 50 members ranging from 4th kup to 6th degree in attendance to soak up Master Nicholls knowledge & experience. Master Deedigan started the seminar with a brisk warm – up preparing all the students for the line work drills that Master Nicholls was about to unleash on us! There was much attention & detail given to how we should deliver the kicks & what their purpose should be, as well as clarification on how pushing  & checking motions should be applied & delivered. As usual the two hours flew by, but there was just enough time to pair up & practice our newly polished techniques on our opponents.

The seminar was concluded with the customary group photos.

After a short break a nervous few were ready to be tested for new degree grades. Some were starting their degree career by going for the 1st degree, but also we had a few going for more senior grades of 4th & 5th degree. All were being tested under the watchful eyes of Master Nicholls VIII, Master Deedigan VII & Mr Flaherty VI. After 4 hours of demonstrating patterns, set sparring, self defence, sparring, & power breaking Master Nicholls gave an inspirational talk & all were relieved to go home & relax to await their results.

As usual it was then a quick dash off to the local Ship inn to prepare for the evening banquet. Everyone was dressed in their best looking forward to a three course meal in the company of Master Nicholls & Master Deedigan. Master Nicholls made his customary speech after the meal & then presented degree belts to some of the surprised students who had graded earlier that day. Lots of photo’s of the new belts along with friends, family, instructors & the Masters then took place & everyone relaxed to enjoy the rest of the evening.

Many thanks & congratulations go to all that made the day possible & we look forward to the next seminar with Masters Nicholls on 19th Oct 2013.