A judo club's annual competition was a huge success thanks to funding from a borough councillor.

The Shizentai Judo Club was able to stage its competition at Hertswood Academy last Sunday, paying for medals for competitors with £250 from Hertsmere borough councillor Richard Butler.

The Kenilworth ward representative paid the money through the Ward Improvement Initiative Scheme, which provides each councillor with £500 to give to local projects.

Medals were presented by the Mayor of Borehamwood Cllr Pat Strack and Cllr Butler, who is deputy mayor.

Cllr Richard Butler said: "I was really pleased to be able to support this worthwhile competition through WIIS funding and thoroughly enjoyed seeing the youngsters in action."

The club holds weekly judo sessions for all abilities from age five upwards at Meryfield Primary School, in Theobald Street.

Jackie Gaitely, who helps runs the club along with coaches Ashley Gaitely, Ricky Cleevely and Lisa Gaitely, said: "Our annual competition was a great success as always and showed the progress all our members have made with their judo in recent months. We were grateful to Councillor Butler for providing funding which contributed greatly to the success of the day. He was also with us all day supporting this event."

For further information about the Shizentai Judo Club, email shizentaijudoclub@hotmail.co.uk or phone 07803 819890.