LEIGH Judo Club welcomed a British Master Champion to the mat.

British Masters Champion John Hope delivered expert coaching and training to the club members and head coach Luke Brown.

The award winning club has previously welcomed Olympian Sophie Cox and Commonwealth champion David Groom.

The champion black belt, is currently studying a masters degree along side the Leigh Judo Club coach Luke Brown.

John said: “It was a privilege to be welcomed to such a fantastic club.

"The club’s members are used to high quality coaching but it was a great opportunity for them to experience a different style.”

John is a coach at Bredakwai Judo Academy in Accrington and is fighting in the World Masters Championships this weekend in Belgium representing Great Britain in the 90kg category.

John said, “I’ve worked hard and I’m excited to be fighting in the World’s representing GB but I also love coaching. "As I’m studying with Luke at the moment it was great to watch him in action and compare ideas.”

Head Coach Luke Brown said, “It was a fantastic opportunity for our members to learn from an experienced coach and judo player.

"John really motivated and inspired them for the future.”

The award winning club is always open to new members and everyone is welcome to a free first session to try judo. Classes are held at at Flex Fitness Center, West Bridgewater St, Leigh.

For further information call 07716149100 or visit www.leighjudoclub.co.uk.