Seven-year-old Connor Kemp started attending karate lessons at Newmarket Leisure Centre seven weeks ago with his younger brother Jack.

Some of the techniques have been adapted so that Connor, who is in a wheelchair, can join in with the class and he is able to practise basic karate-style punches with his arms.

His parents, Robert and Ellen, hope the ancient Japanese martial art will help Connor to strengthen his upper body as well as build up his confidence.

"Connor finds it quite tiring but absolutely loves it," said Mr Kemp.

"He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was 11 months old so he's had it from birth really. He's never known how to be able to walk and relies on his electric wheelchair to get around everywhere.

"The disease makes him quite stiff so hopefully this will improve his mobility.

"He's got limited mobility in his legs but can lift his legs and do small kicks now."

Connor began the activity after his parents contacted trainer Wayne Baker about lessons for Jack, aged five.

The family, who live at Manny Mercer Court in Howard De Walden Way, were told that Connor could also participate in the activity as it would help strengthen his muscles.

The boys, both pupils at Houldsworth Valley Primary School, train for half an hour every week under a organisation called Sesma – the South Eastern School of Martial Arts – based in Norwich.

The group has been running weekly martial arts classes at Newmarket leisure centre for the last 11 years.

Mr Baker, Sesma master instructor, said he was pleased with Connor's progress so far.

"We are able to adapt some of the moves but he doesn't have full leg movement so he's not able to do flash jump kicks," he said.

"As well as basic moves, he's learning a lot of life skills. He's doing well."

He said that martial arts classes specially designed for children with disabilities and learning difficulties could be set up in the leisure centre next year.

The Kemp family hope Connor can continue with his lessons for as long as possible.

"We are not sure if the condition will get any worse," said Mr Kemp.
"Sometimes when he sits in his wheelchair he does feel vulnerable as he's a lot lower than other children.

"This gives him something to look forward to the end of a hard week at school."

He added: "Connor's quite a shy lad and is building confidence in himself. It seems to be working."

For further information on cerebral palsy, visit www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or www.scope.org.uk.

Anyone interested in martial arts classes at Newmarket leisure centre should contact Sesma at 01603 260751.