TRIBUTES have been paid to a martial arts instructor, who set up a popular karate club in Worcester.

Eddie Daniels died during a family holiday to Turkey on January 25.

The 70-year-old was a world leader teaching karate, competing and winning many awards.

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Mr Daniels founded the Shukokai Karate Federation in Worcester in 1980, and the club is now established at St John’s Sports Centre.

Mr Daniels started training karate in 1965 and in 1968, having had some training in Wado Ryu, he changed karate style to Shukokai, training under Master Kimura until his untimely death in 1995. He was a member of the All-styles British Squad from 1970 to 1975, and in the 1990s he became one of the four World Chief Instructors for Kimura Shukokai International.

Mr Daniels had the title of Shihan, a teacher of teachers, and in 1999 he was awarded a special award from Combat Magazine for his outstanding contribution towards the development of martial arts in the United Kingdom and the world.

His wife Solfrid, who has also helped run the club, said: “He will be well known in Worcester. He enjoyed lots of success, and travelled all across the world teaching students. He passed away in his sleep unexpectedly.”

Sensei Steve Farrow, the club's instructor, added: “Even though he has achieved a great deal in the competition field, his main emphasis was on teaching the true martial art, where self-discipline, etiquette and respect are of prime importance. Without these aspects a student cannot develop the type of character necessary to follow the way of the martial arts.

“Shihan Daniels was one of the most experienced instructors of any style in Great Britain with over five decades of experience - he was Master Kimura’s most senior European instructor.”

Mr Daniels, who was Gornal, is survived by wife Solfrid, son Audun and granddaughter Mia. His funeral details are yet to be arranged.