THERE was a big surprise for Samurai Judo Club member Paul Moss when he was presented with his sixth level black belt, becoming the second member of the club to achieve that grade.
The belt, which is red and white, was presented to him by fellow Samurai Paul Jones, the first member of the club to gain the grade.
After joining the club in 1992, he steadily went through the grades to fifth level, the highest contest grade.
Along the way, he was five times a British National Masters Championships medallist, most recently with a bronze last year. He also memorably won the North-West Open Championships and was silver medallist in the Welsh Open.
The 56-year-old has spent more time helping the younger players at the club and it was this work that the British Judo Association (BJA) recognized by awarding his sixth dan.
Grades above fifth dan are given for services to the sport, as opposed to contest achievements.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here