Judo club 'delighted' at move to new premises

Telford's only judo club has relocated to larger premises after receiving a business start-up grant.

Wrekin Star Judo, which was founded 60 years ago, has been operating from the upper floors in Wellington Market, but has now moved to a bigger base in Church Street.

The new site will enable the club, run as a volunteer-led social enterprise, to host regional and national events through the British Judo Association.

Coach Gareth Mapp said the club was "really excited" about the move and grateful for the funding support.

"We are delighted that, after 60 years, Wrekin Star has a permanent home in Wellington, a first for local judo," he said.

"As a volunteer-run social enterprise, we are very grateful for the support that has made this possible, from all of our members and from Telford and Wrekin Council.

"We have a very diverse membership and look forward to welcoming more of the community into the Olympic sport of judo for fitness or fun, whatever their experience, age, background or abilities."

The funding has come from the council's Pride in Our High Street programme, and the club has also received £2,000 from Wellington ward members to provide some free taster sessions and community engagement activities, the council said.

The grant has gone towards funding the cost of new changing rooms, disabled toilet facilities, safety flooring, design and survey costs, tables and chairs and office furniture.

Councillor Ollie Vickers, cabinet member for the economy, said: "As an established judo club in Telford, the benefits to Wellington high street and Wellington are enormous as visitors to the club will help to increase footfall and help shops locally.

"This is an excellent addition to Church Street and will hopefully help the club grow even bigger now it has an established high street base."

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