Tyne and Wear Ishinryu was established in 1989 by Eddie Gillespie. Since then, the club has gone on to produce a string of national and international champions.  But this success has built up from a cornerstone whose foundation is embedded in the traditions of karate. 

Eddie Gillespie 5th Dan has achieved huge success himself on the competition karate circuit in both the kata and kumite disciplines of the art.  His students continue to do the same. But this “tradition of excellence” comes from the spiritual, mental and physical discipline instilled in the clubs across the North East of England.

Many of the students who started at Tyne and Wear Ishinryu when it first opened its doors in 1989 still practise their art at the club. Whether young or old, Tyne and Wear Ishinryu students are united in a goal to strive to maintain those traditions. Its name and its students have become synonymous with success, excellence and camaraderie.

If you want to be a part of these traditions – contact us today.

Telephone : 0191 385 4515 or 07985 443230 or email

Chikara