MEMBERS of Melbourn Judo Club were treated to coaching sessions under the guidance of former world champion Jane Bridge on Saturday. Jane won her world title in 1980 in New York and was also three times European Champion. She is currently teaching and coa

MEMBERS of Melbourn Judo Club were treated to coaching sessions under the guidance of former world champion Jane Bridge on Saturday.

Jane won her world title in 1980 in New York and was also three times European Champion.

She is currently teaching and coaching fellow in performance judo at Team Bath Academy, which is one of the centres set up for elite players to further develop their judo expertise.

The first session was for five to 10 year olds and included 20 beginners who joined the club just two weeks earlier.

Jane demonstrated a range of techniques with the children practicing the moves assisted by the club's six coaches.

The second session was a much more advanced session for the club's teenagers and seniors.

Also present, were Dermot Heslop the British Judo Association's head of schools development and Kerry Finney regional technical officer (North West).

With 67 junior and senior club members on the mat, the two one and a half hour sessions flew by, but certainly non more than Royston mayor Councillor Paul Grimes, who attended the closing ceremony and before leaving accepted the invitation to fly over Jane's shoulders.

Cllr Grimes added: "As mayor I am proud to support Melbourn Judo Club as I strongly believe that aside from the obvious health and fitness benefits, martial arts encourage confidence and discipline in people of all ages.

"I hope that the visit by Jane helps to highlight the good work Derek and Ann (Coult) carry out with a fantastic contribution from the club's committee."

On Sunday, the club hosted a technical conference for coaches from throughout the UK who were updated on the new Technical Grading Scheme that was introduced six months ago.

Dave Southby, Eastern Region technical officer who headed the course, said: "I was delighted with the turnout, the content and participation, was helped greatly by the staff and facilities at Royston Leisure Centre.