Almost 800 bilingual leaflets promoting a local arts club are to be distributed to homes in the west of the island.

A grant of £340 has been awarded to St John’s Aikido Club by the Manx Lottery Trust for the production and distribution of the flyers.

Based in St John’s Methodist Hall, the club provides self-defence and martial arts training for adults and teenagers.

The flyers are to be printed in both English and Manx, with assistance from Culture Vannin, and will be delivered to all homes in St John’s, Foxdale, Glen Maye and Dalby.

They hope to increase awareness of the opportunities available at the club and encourage more people to take up the sporting activity and try something new.

David Halsall from St John’s Aikido Club said: ’We decided to get the flyers produced bilingually to show support for the Manx language and introduce people to it. We’re so grateful to Culture Vannin for assisting with the translations and Manx Lottery Trust for its continued support of our club, having also awarded us a grant towards the purchase of new mats in 2018.

’As a teacher with 35 years’ experience I like to introduce the concept that self-defence is not about being aggressive and strong.

’I teach in a way that suits the individual in a room where there is no fear or competition, promoting an atmosphere of relaxation and focus and encouraging co-operation between students so learning is enjoyable.

’Practice can be slow and calm or relaxed and dynamic dependent on age and flexibility.’

Sarah Kelly, the chairman of Manx Lottery Trust, said: ’We’re pleased to further support St John’s Aikido Club in its efforts to encourage more people to try this sport. It is a well-respected and established club within the western community and we love the fact it is celebrating the Manx language through the leaflet.’

St John’s Aikido Club will stage starter classes in March for beginners and holds weekly practices for all levels and abilities on Thursday evenings at St John’s Methodist Hall, St John’s at 70pm.

To find out more call David on 07925 209472, email [email protected] or find St John’s Aikido Club on Facebook.

To find out more about the work of the Manx Lottery Trust visit www.mlt.org.im.