Dylan Gibson, one of our Post 16 Tutors, was presented with a High Sheriff of Northumberland Award last month. Dylan, who received the award on behalf of his karate club, Kokoro Karate Club, lost his sight just over two years ago. Despite his sight loss, Dylan continues to run the karate club five nights a week in Cramlington and Blyth, alongside his sister, Gemma.
This is the second year in a row that the club has received a High Sheriff Award. Last year, Dylan was also awarded the High Sheriff’s Special Recognition Award.
This year’s award was presented by Lucia Bridgeman, the High Sheriff of Northumberland and television presenter Alexander Armstrong, who was born and raised in Rothbury.
Kokoro Karate Club received the award in recognition of great and valuable services to the community. The award also recognises the appreciation of the residents and the people of Northumberland for the activities the club promotes and the contribution it makes to enhancing the life of the community.
During his speech, Alexander Armstrong talked about the cultural heritage of Northumberland and the importance of building a strong community. He also praised all of the groups receiving awards for the enrichment activities they deliver and the opportunities they offer to young people.
The High Sheriff said, ‘Kokoto Karate Club exemplifies what dedication and teamwork can create. I cannot find the words to express how impressed I was by Dylan and how he has coped with overcoming the loss of his sight with such fortitude. It would have been easy for him to turn his back on the sport that he participated in at such a high level but instead he has dedicated himself to encouraging others to take part in karate and sharing his passion for the sport.’
These sentiments are ones we would echo, as Dylan has continued in his role as an exceptional Post 16 Tutor, supporting the students in his care with their academic and pastoral needs.