THE Olympic martial art, which is Japanese in its origin, at the London Olympics 2012 Gemma Gibbons claimed a silver medal for Team GB.

Now two judo enthusiasts are hoping to find the next Olympic star from Tavistock

Charles Knape, who is a former British junior champion and trained with many Olympians, is a former member of the Budokwai Club.

Mr Knape is a second dan black belt and has been teaching and training in judo for over 30 years.

He is joined by Ross Taylor, a current member of the GBR Masters squad, who has been practising the martial art since 1988 and is a first dan black belt.

The two judo men are offering a junior class for those aged from five to 14 and a senior class from ages 14 to 80 plus.

The classes take place on a Friday from 6pm until 7pm at the Tavistock Community Sports Centre on Crowndale Road.

Mr Knape told the Times: 'Judo is a fantastic sport which teaches discipline and self control whilst keeping its participants physically fit. We welcome anyone who is curious about our sport or people who still haven't found 'their' sport yet.'

Mr Taylor added: 'Tavistock hasn't had a judo class since Derek Da Silva stopped teaching judo some 15 years ago. We are excited about the prospect of discovering the next generation of talented judoka.'

Anyone interested in trying judo is encouraged to go along on a Friday evening or call 01752 317557.