LANGWORTHY’S Dean Field made a spectacular return from a serious knee injury by winning a gold medal at the European Shotokan Karate Association Championships in London.

The 29-year-old had not competed in a major tournament since 2006 after tearing his arterial cruciate ligament.

But that did not stop him from prevailing in the adult fighting category in London and taking a bronze medal in the team performance event.

Fourth dan black belt Field, who has been teaching an adapted form of Shotokan karate at Bannatyne’s Health Club on Quay Street for the past two years, said: "It was an amazing event, especially as it was in England in front of a friendly crowd.

"The team were excellent and we fought hard.

"And winning the medals at this tournament was particularly special considering the injuries I’ve had. Everyone in Greater Manchester has been really supportive, including those in my class at Bannatyne’s, who have backed me all of the way."

Field has been studying martial arts for 23 years. He has been ranked as high as first in the UK, third in Europe and fifth in the world.

He has competed for England and Great Britain since 1999 but he has missed most of the international events over the last four years due to injuries.

Field was forced to undergo four operations before returning to team events action in 2006, only to suffer his agonising knee injury soon after.

While recovering from the injury, Field focussed on teaching a popular Shotokan kumite (fighting) class at Bannatyne’s, offering his students a full body workout which improves stamina and flexibility.

Becky Allen, the general manager of Bannatyne’s, said: "We are very proud of Dean, who is a real inspiration at the health club.

"He has created a very popular class and I am sure his achievements and gold medal status will increase interest in martial arts among our members, both as a sport and as a great way to keep fit."

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