A YOUTH leader and martial arts expert from Burley-in-Wharfedale is this week hosting the first aikido world championships to be held outside the sport's native Japan.

Former Ilkley parish councillor Bob Jones, of Heather Bank, has been working hard to bring the Fifth Aikido World Championships contest to Leeds, as chairman of the British Aikido Association.

And the martial arts contest may see more of his family step into the spotlight this weekend.

Mr Jones' daughter, Danielle, 19, is the current ladies' British Champion in the sport, and his son, Simon, 22, won the world title around four years ago.

Both of the former Ilkley Grammar School pupils are hoping for success at the international finals at Leeds University on Saturday.

Mr Jones said the world championships have previously been held in Japan, where the martial art originated - and other international competitions have so far been held in exotic locations.

"The official world championships have never been outside of Japan before, although we've had a festival, and competitions in places like Los Angeles and Brisbane."

The championships is the first of a new two-year cycle of events agreed by the worldwide aikido authority, Tomiki Aikido International Network.

The prestigious event is expected to attract around 300 visitors from Britain, Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Georgia, Poland and Japan.

As well as the main Aikido competition, and the elimination rounds, which are taking place throughout this week, the International Festival features tours of local attractions and a farewell banquet at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds. Mr Jones is inviting competitors and enthusiasts to visit local attractions while staying in Leeds for the festival.

Aikido is a martial art which uses techniques from jujitsu and kenjutsu. Rather than focusing on punching or kicking opponents, aikido involves using an attacker's own energy to gain control or throw them off.

More information about the martial art, and about the championships, are available by calling (01943) 863857, or at the British Aikido Association website at www.aikido-baa.org.uk.