AWE Judo Club, based in Tadley, has become the latest club in Hampshire to gain the prestigious British Judo Clubmark award.

Developed by Sport England, Clubmark is a set of National standards for National Governing Bodies of Sport to adopt and their affiliated clubs to meet. The scheme recognises and accredits clubs that are committed to providing safe, effective and child friendly environments for young people.

Chris Doherty, British Judo’s regional Technical Officer and 6th Dan presented the nationally recognised accreditation to President of AWE Judo Club Don Turnbull who is a 1st Dan.

Don, now 76, from Tadley, began coaching in 1965 when he founded the Post Office judo club. In 1966 he founded Lansing Bagnall judo club, until John Gowland took over.

He then went on to set up Hurst judo club in 1976, later becoming Chairman and the club then became AWE judo club.

Don continues to be active to this day as the chairman and also helps develop judo at grass roots by refereeing.

He enjoyed a competitive career up to 1st Kyu and was later nominated for his 1st Dan, which was presented to him by Keith Adams of the Southern Area.This he took up in 1984 and was on the Hampshire Committee for 10 years responsible for the “calling” of the referees for the county until 2008. He still remains committed to the sport today refereeing at over 30 events in 2012 and 16 so far this year, including the London Youth Games.

At the turn of the year, AWE received Sportivate funding to increase their senior membership, as well as a local grant from Basingstoke & Deane Council. AWE welcome new and experienced players of all ages.

For details visit http://www.awejudoclub.org.uk/