The Martial arts worlds New Year honours list has included two Oswestry instructors.

Mark Gerrard and Geoff Moore have both been awarded the honorific title of Shiahn which is Master Teacher and Role Model.

In traditional martial arts these titles run parallel but independent of the belt system and are given as separate honours.

The titles are Renshi, Polished instructor, Kyoshii Professor and Shihan Master Teacher and Role Model - this being the highest award.

The honours were issued by the Kokusai Shin Budo Kokai traditional Japanese martial arts group to its two outstanding members.

Mark and Geoff were both thrilled as usually only one person per school is given this honour.

However in recognition of both men's lifetime in martial arts Bushin Martial Arts has been given two.

Mark spoke of his motivations to teach martial arts.

He said: “Well it’s certainly not financial gain, I often end up subsidising classes from my own pocket.

"But I do get the satisfaction of knowing I have done something positive for the youngsters and adults who come to me lacking confidence and develop as stronger more independent people”

Geoff echoed the sentiments and said pupils of martial arts would become better members of society and the best versions of themselves.

Geoff said: “It’s all about sharing and contributing to the wider community and society.

"When we help develop a Bushin Black belt, we give them the motivation, skills and confidence to contribute to society positively.

"Encouraging them to help others, behave responsibly and be the best version of themselves.

"In martial arts this is the underlying philosophy and pedagogy of Budo.

"Every black belt that we produce is our gift to the community."