TAVISTOCK Jujitsu Club is going from strength to strength, says its founder, after celebrating its ninth anniversary this week.

'Jujitsu is a self-defence martial art which was developed in Japan more than 2,000 years ago. It helps the practitioners, especially the young ones, improve their learning, concentration and discipline. Jujitsu also promotes coordination, fitness and confidence and it's just plain fun to do, said Umberto Bergonzini, instructor at the Tavistock Club, who has been practising the martial art for 22 years!'

Umberto added that when he opened the club at Tavistock College on May 14, 2002 he did not know if anyone would turn up. 'I remember feeling nervous, excited and also worried. I definitely breathed a sigh of relief when I turned up and there were already nine people waiting to try jujitsu.' Since then the club has moved to the Scout Hut in Pixon Lane and has gone from strength to strength. More classes were introduced to cater for various age groups, one off self-defence courses have been run for women only, for the youngsters at the Youth Café and also the year 13 students at Tavistock College as part of the independent living initiative.

The club also organises the annual 'open' jujitsu workshop with martial artist attending from all over the South West. The club now sports two first degree black belts and one second degree black belt and also have open classes in Launceston and Tamerton Foliot in Plymouth.'

Anyone interested in trying jujitsu call Umberto on 07866 720361 or come to one of the classes. Beginners are welcome. For details see http://www.jujitsu.uk.com">www.jujitsu.uk.com