People of all ages are invited to train at an established and successful Billericay Karate Club.

The Billericay Uechi Ryu club practices four times a week at their dojo in South Green Memorial Hall, Southend Road, South Green, Billericay.

There, 6th dan expert Paul Natzyl puts people of all ages and abilities through their paces.

Paul, who lives in Upminster, started training in the martial art in 1977 at Shenfield Sports Centre, and has been teaching professionally since 1986.

Uechi Ryu, unlike many forms of Karate, originated in China and was brought to Japan in the early 20th century by Kanbun Uechi.

The style - also known as Pwangai-noon, or half-hard half-soft - is characterised by an upright stance, circular blocks, open hand and one knuckle hitting techniques and kicking with the big toe.

Training sessions are held at the hall on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings and Friday afternoons.

For details call Paul on 01277 229538.

Published Monday January 12, 2004

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