A COLOSSUS of Kendal karate is retiring after 30 years of loyal service.

Stephen Chaplow, 50, has been a big name in Chojinkai karate across Cumbria since he first took up the martial art in 1985.

The Kendal-based instructor recently announced his retirement and was awarded a sixth dan black belt in recognition of his dedication to the sport at a Senior Training Course earlier this month.

In addition to achieving six dans and winning silver and bronze medals in the team and individual events at the Belgium International Cup, Steve has also coached countless black belts.

Steve spoke to the Gazette about how it all began.

"I was looking for something to test me physically and mentally," said Steve, from Kendal. "I tried judo and didn't think that was for me so I got involved with karate when I was 20 to give me something to do.

"The competitive side of it is something I enjoyed and it helped my fitness because I have a physical job."

Steve was thrust into a coaching role earlier than most when he was only a first kyu brown belt after Sensei Doug James relocated to Scotland.

Despite the extra work, Steve looks back on it as one of the best experiences of his career.

"I was in charge from being a brown belt so it took me longer to get the black belt because I was training people twice a week in Kendal then going to train myself in Carlisle," he said.

"I enjoyed it so much. I benefitted from the fact I was teaching because I had to understand it more.

"You only start to learn karate at black belt. It becomes more than just something to do. It becomes a greater part of your life. You learn to strive to better yourself."

Chojinkai karate is renowned as being the most physically demanding and competitive genre but times have changed.

"Back in the day when I started it was very physical and hard," said Steve, who co-owns Anthony and Stephen Chaplow Landscapes and Groundworks with his brother.

"Now it's more of a sport. Once upon a time you could get a kicking and a punching and you would just have to put up with it. Now there's less contact which is a step in the right direction, especially for the juniors. At the end of the day they have to go into school the next day and it could put them off. I can remember going into work covered in bruises and aches and pains because of the training."

It is safe to say Steve leaves the Kendal club in a better position than when he found it - there are now seven black belts who regularly train and teach to ensure the club continues its history of success.

It is with a heavy heart that he is hanging up his gi and according to his former mentor, Sensei Doug James, Steve will be "sorely missed".

"People have asked why I'm retiring but they don't see me getting out of bed in the morning!" said Steve.

"I'll leave it to the younger guys - I don't want to be the old git in the corner. I want to finish on a high. The club is being left in very good hands with Matthew Miller and I would like to thank everyone I have had the pleasure of being involved with over the years."