HIGHLY-RESPECTED and long-serving karate instructor Steve Crowley celebrates more than 50 years in martial arts, testament to his unwavering commitment and motivation to bestow his wisdom on to the next generation.

Born in Eastleach, the 77-year-old Sensei founded the karate school Heikina Ki Kai in 1978, where it now resides in Fairford.

Regarded as a self-styled fitness fanatic with how well he maintains peak physical condition, pioneer Crowley has given his life to karate and was rewarded an 8th Dan by Amateur Martial Association for 45 years in the industry - one of the highest certificates in the world of karate.

Despite being in his twilight years, he presides over two sessions a week with up to 60 pupils at a time at his karate school and is showing no signs of slowing down.

“I’ve no idea what the future holds. I intend to keep going for as long as I can. I wake up every day and look forward to training. I still enjoy it,” he said.

Such a lifelong commitment doesn’t come without sacrifices, however, but Crowley has a supporting family and three generations who are now currently training at the dojo – he did reveal wife Susie took some persuading after initially refusing to bow to the Sensei!

While not ready to draw the curtain on his time in martial arts, the selfless instructor is proud his legacy will be carried on by his students and generations to follow.

“That is the achievement of everything.

“To have former students who are now raising their family and training from my old teachings is incredible.

“Many still refuse to call me anything other than Sensei!” Crowley added.

Karate is also about self-discipline and respect and Crowley is a stern believer in such teachings.

And in a generation suffering from a lack of morality, he hopes he can inspire many to follow in his footsteps.