Finding a place for the community

Colin Parker (4th Dan) : Sensei Colin has spent his life in public service with a distinguished career in the British Army, HM Prison & New Scotland Yard.

He joined the British Army in 1978 serving in the Queens regiment (Infantry), with tours that included Northern Ireland & United Nations. He received the Brigade Commanders Commendation for actions that saved lives while putting own life at risk. Continuing his public service at HM Prison Service and reaching position as Governor, Colin has exposure to New Scotland Yard and challenging areas that need tackling such as Corruption, Prevention, Drugs strategy & treatment plus other significant areas including safer custody.

Colin contributes selflessly to the community and continues to invest his time, personal resources and energy in supporting youth, less advantaged families & Children through martial arts training. He is an inspiration to many, having achieved great heights in martial arts and now a 4th Dan (Shotokan) and World Union of Karate Federations, World level Referee. Officiating in many positions including WUKF World and European championships EKF & World Club Championships.

His dream of finding a ‘home’ for Mo-ichido, that will be a legacy for the community and Martial Arts over the years, is represented here at the Horton Dojo & Community Project.

Please give generously

The Project :

The club has a committed user base of 150 people from the local community built up over the 7 years since we first opened. The club continues to grow but we are now also out growing our current dojo space. We are raising money to help us renovate a new bigger space that will support our existing members and make it possible for many more to join, train and grow with us in the years to come. See some pictures of the new site below.

Focus is on providing health and wellbeing to the local community through its holistic approach to the disciplines of the martial arts and provision of fitness activities. It’s aim is to be open to and encourage a diverse mix of people in particular young people, women and specific groups that can benefit from specialised classes.

The strengths of the club are apparent for all to see. It provides a unique environment for families, schoolchildren and adults to pursue sport and well-being linked to a holistic and disciplined philosophy of life. It is non-discriminatory, encouraging participation by less advantaged families and children.

It is a centre of excellence, providing the opportunity for local people to pursue their aspirations and perform at the highest levels of the sport. It provides role models for its members and the opportunity for them to mix with and watch the top performers. As a National squad training centre it provides advanced classes, squad training sessions and gradings. The club and EKK Association has produced many National, European and World Champions in both Kata and Kumite (forms and fighting) in many age ranges.

Testimonials :