Still recovering from pulmonary thrombosis and also two deep vein thrombosis in both a leg and arm, unfortunately a result of an autumn holiday to Cuba, Paul Thomas,  an instructor at the Shodokan Wales aikido club at Monmouth Leisure Centre, receives his second dan certificate from club senior coach, Bob Forrest-Webb 7th Dan. 

  Paul's certificate and belt were sent to him personally from Japan by Tetsuru Nariyama shihan, 8th Dan senior instructor and Director of the All Japan Aikido Association. The certificate is signed by the chairman of the Japan association and is an award which is recognised worldwide.  Members of the Shodokan Wales club are delighted with Paul's well-deserved promotion and are looking forward to his return to club coaching when he has fully recovered.