Monday 14 October 2013

Stephen Metcalfe MP supports biggest Japanese cultural event in Essex

Last week Stephen Metcalfe MP visited the Kodosai Cultural Event to show his support for Japanese martial arts and culture in the local area and also to celebrate the established links between Japan and South Basildon and East Thurrock resulting from the 2012 Olympic Games.

The event, held in association with a number of organisation including the Japan Society UK and local Karate Club Maru Karate Kai, was the biggest Japanese martial arts and cultural event staged in Essex this year.

It aimed to celebrate Japanese activities in Basildon, recognising the Japanese Olympic and Paralympic swimming teams staying in Basildon for the London 2012 Olympic Games, and to promote Anglo-Japanese relations.

The local MP, who is patron of Maru Karate Kai, was able to get a taste of traditional Japanese martial arts, Shodu (calligraphy), Kyudou (archery), Ikebana (flower arranging), Nihongo (Language), and traditional drumming music.

He commented: “This was a fantastic event showcasing Japanese culture. I was blown away by some of the demonstrations and performances and it was a great way to celebrate our links with Japan.” 

“It must have taken a great deal of organising and hard work to put on so I would like to thank everyone involved. I hope that those who went learned as much as I did and I look forward to supporting other events such as this in the future.”