A MARTIAL arts teacher has been given an award for his dedication to the wellbeing of his community.

Basildon Council presented the Alf Dove Award to Marc Grayston, a teacher with Shindo-Ryu Karate-Do, at a ceremony at the Basildon Centre.

Mr Grayston holds the international rank of Hanshi, one of the highest ranks available in martial arts.

He became a teacher aged 16, after joining the sport aged four, and this year celebrates his 27th year of training.

Mayor, councillor David Harrison, said: “For the past 15 years, Marc has dedicated himself to teaching karate to people of all ages and abilities.”Resolute in his commitment to this beloved martial art form, he has guided students of all levels and focuses on the importance of inclusion in the martial arts community.

“This is reflected in his work offering free self-defence classes to women and teaching specialised defence sessions for the disabled.

“In addition to this, he actively takes part in community initiatives to improve child safety. Marc is the definition of a ‘model example’ and I am proud to present him with this award.”

Mr Grayston said: “I’m honoured to receive this award. Every day I get to teach karate to children and adults from all walks of life and their genuine enthusiasm is contagious.”

“With thanks to Cllr Danny Lawrence for the nomination, the Council’s Group Leaders for their support and special thanks to every single one of my students, I’m excited to keep teaching and training, as well as promoting karate in local schools.”

Shindo-Ryu Karate-Do, the karate school where Marc teaches, will celebrate its 32nd anniversary this year.

The Alf Dove Award was established to mark the 43 years of service of Alf Dove and his significant contribution as a councillor when he retired in 1999.

The award seeks to recognise significant contributions made by individuals to the well-being of the local community.