A MARTIAL arts club celebrated its 38th year with a visit from former student and professional UFC fighter, Joseph Duffy.

The mixed martial artist, who competes in the lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship, began his training with Taijutsu Kai, in Worcester, when he was eight years old.

On Sunday, he returned to the renowned jujutsu association, founded in 1980, which was offering its members the opportunity to train with top instructors, at Perdiswell Leisure Centre, in Worcester.

Jujutsu is a Japanese style of unarmed combat that anyone can take part in to develop self-defence skills.

Mr Duffy, 30, said: “I would travel up from Wales to train at the club. It was the only place that had quality jujutsu. This association was a massive influence on me and my career. Jujutsu was not available for me until I came here. I was a professional fighter while training with Taijutsu Kai until I was 22.

“Most of the well-known names, such as Marc Goddard, who is a top referee for UFC began his training here.

“I love coming back and seeing everyone. It is like coming home.”

Sensei Ross Iannoccaro, president of the association, said: “The personal skills and values gained through the study of jujutsu encourages participants to become more disciplined, self-confident and allows a sense of community.

“We are proud to have the best instructors in the art. Many of our members have been training with us from the very beginning.”

The association has 18 clubs across the UK and five based in Worcestershire. 200 children and over 100 adults attended the seminar, which incorporated self-defence skills, personal protection and awareness, grappling and professional advice.

Taijutsu Kai is usually based at St John's Sports Centre, in Worcester.