Lowton Community Hub recently hosted a full day of North West judo activity, bringing together education, governance, and high-level coaching under one roof. The programme included first aid training and safeguarding in the morning, followed by the North West AGM, updates to dan grading rules, and a standout masterclass led by Paralympic champion Christopher Hunt Skelly.
everything under one roof!
Being able to host multiple activities in one place, on one day, proved a major advantage. Coaches, referees, and volunteers were able to complete full revalidation without travelling between venues. For many, that efficiency matters. It saves time, reduces cost, and makes continued development more accessible. The event drew strong attendance from across the entire North West, reflecting both the importance of the calendar date and the value of the setting.
For Leigh Judo Club, the day marked a clear statement of intent. It was an opportunity to announce and showcase the dojo and the wider benefits of the hub. The layout allowed parallel sessions to run smoothly, with space for learning, discussion, and high-quality mat work without compromise.
Luke Brown, Leigh Judo Club Chairman and trustee of Lowton Community Hub, reflected on the significance of the weekend:
Masterclass with Paralympic champion Christopher Hunt Skelly.
The masterclass with Christopher Hunt Skelly was a highlight. Coaches and players took away practical techniques they could apply immediately in their own clubs. More than that, his delivery captured the essence of judo. Purpose, humility, resilience, and respect were clear throughout. The session inspired as much as it instructed.
Thanks are due to Chris Millward (Former NW Judo Chairman) and the North West Board for selecting Lowton Community Hub to host such an important regional event. Their trust and support played a key role in the day’s success.
Following the positive response, the hub will now host eight upcoming North West judo events, including black belt dan gradings and kata courses throughout 2026. The ambition is simple: Provide a space that serves the judo community well, supports development at every level, and strengthens the region as a whole.
Watch the video below and see what judo means…
"Seeing so many people together — some I haven’t seen in over a decade — was surreal. I realised that, one way or another, I’ve trained at every judo club in the North West. For better or worse, I’m a true product of North West judo. Judo has shaped who I am and my life far beyond the mat, and that includes building Leigh Judo Club and this dojo. I hope, in time, we can give back to the region that gave so much to me.”
What a fantastic place and event. I didn’t even know the building was there never mind that we’ve had world class paralympian in Lowton. Lowton! Keep up the good work. 👏🏻