On Saturday 19th October Master Nicholls travelled 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 over 70 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 step sparring drills that Master Nicholls was about to unleash on us! There was much attention & detail given to how we should deliver 3,2 & 1 step sparring as well as clarification on the advanced & model 1 step. As usual the two hours flew by.

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 & Miss Burridge VI. After 4 hours of demonstrating patterns, set sparring, self defence, sparring, & power breaking Master Nicholls gave a motivational 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 our 2014 seminars which are already scheduled on the calendar page.