Judo club thrilled handed grant (From Borehamwood Times)

Shizentai Judo club handed Herts County Council grant

5:03pm Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News By Anna Slater

Martial instructors were left thrilled after their club was handed a much-needed grant.

Shizentai Judo club, who meet at Merryfield School, Theobold Street, Borehamwood, were given a £750 county council grant to buy uniforms for the youngsters.

Lisa Marie Stately, a volunteer who helps coach disabled children of all ages, said: “This grant is so fantastic.

“We want to buy personalised jumpers to wear when we go to competitions so this grant will help pay for that.

“All of the volunteers try really hard and it is really nice that the good work we do has been acknowledged. I would like to thank the council for giving us this opportunity.”

The cash was donated by Councillor Morris Bright and Councillor Alan Plancey, who each gave £375 out of of their locality budgets.

The club teaches people from five to adults – and also caters for people with physical disabilities and learning difficulties such as ADHD.

Miss Stately, who is 21, said the coaches had tried to apply for a county council grant in March after the group was first set up, but failed.

She added: “The club really helps kids control their emotions and gives them the opportunity to try out an Olympic sport, so this grant means the world to us.”