TUGS on the heart-strings accompanied those on clean white judogi robes at an emotional event hosted by Stamford Bridge Judo Club.

Close on 40 youngsters aged from five upwards took part in the first Andrew Fennell Memorial Tournament, which was held close to the anniversary of former club secretary and treasurer Andrew Fennell, who died tragically last year.

The sight of the youngsters - the lightest was Katie Moore at a mere 19 kilogrammes - competing with 100 per cent commitment certainly got to the club's instructor, former Great Britain judo titan Rob Thomas.

A recent illness had denied the man who represented his country for nigh on two decades from taking part in the demonstration of the noble martial art.

But as he took a watching brief the judo man of steel felt the emotion well up inside.

Said Thomas, who gained a new lease of life in the World Masters Championships in which he was crowned world champion in Canada last year: "It was fantastic to see so many youngsters giving their all.

"It was a very emotional occasion because of what it stood for - a memorial to Andrew - but because I was out, rather than the kids looking up to me, it was me watching them."

Added the man, who has run Stamford Bridge JC for the last eight years: "There were youngsters there who I remember when they first attended the club. A lot started off quite timid, but here they were putting their heart and soul into the fights. It gave me a massive lift in confidence and pride."

Another point of high emotion was a special trophy donated by Mr Fennell's widow, Jo. Awarded to the youngster who showed the most promise as well as competing in the proper spirit of judo, the recipient was Adam Waller.