Karate club raises £630 for charity at first aid course
Young Gloves Karate has raised £90,130 for good causes since it was established in 1999
A community karate club has raised £630 for The Brain Charity through a first aid training course held in memory of a much-loved local woman.
Young Gloves Karate (YGK), based in Kidderminster, organised the event on Sunday, October 18, bringing people together to learn potentially life-saving skills while raising money in memory of Lidia Connolly.
The training was led by Samantha Tildesley and West Midlands Police trainers Ally Lew and Maurice Arthur, who volunteered their time to share their expertise.
Participants learned practical first aid techniques and developed their confidence in responding to emergencies.
Justin Thomas BEM, founder and senior instructor at Young Gloves Karate, said: “We are absolutely delighted with how well the course went and would like to thank everyone who came along and supported us.
“First aid is so important. We all hope we will never find ourselves in a situation where we need to use these skills, but emergencies can happen anywhere, at any time. Having the knowledge and confidence to help someone could save a life.”
He thanked the trainers for giving up their time and said raising money for The Brain Charity in memory of Lidia made the event particularly special.
The latest donation takes the club’s total fundraising for charities and good causes to £90,130 since it was established in 1999.
Over the years, the family-run club has supported a range of charities and community organisations, with members choosing which causes to support through an annual charity vote.
The club also works to support young people and families through martial arts, fitness and inclusive activities, aiming to make a positive difference beyond the dojo.
Mr Thomas said the fundraising milestone reflected the commitment of members and the wider community to supporting others.