Your Instructors

Train With the Finest

Decades of expertise, a passion for teaching, and a genuine commitment to every student's success.

Grand Master Ed Dillon Photo
Founder & Head Instructor

Grand Master Ed Dillon

8th Dan Black Belt Founder, Est. 1990 BMABA Accredited

Grand Master Ed Dillon is the founder of Genjitsu Martial Arts and one of the most experienced and respected martial artists in the North of England. Holding an 8th Dan Black Belt, his expertise spans decades of dedicated study, teaching and refinement of his unique multi-style system.

Grand Master Dillon founded Genjitsu in 1990 with a vision to create a martial arts system that was genuinely effective in real-world situations, accessible to students of all ages and backgrounds, and built on the values of discipline, respect and continuous improvement.

Over more than three decades, that vision has been realised. Grand Master Dillon's approach to teaching is both demanding and deeply patient, he holds his students to high standards while ensuring every individual feels supported and valued throughout their journey.

"Martial arts changed my life, and I've dedicated myself to giving others that same opportunity, regardless of their age, ability or background."
— Grand Master Ed Dillon
Train Under Grand Master Dillon
Master David Dillon Photo
Senior Instructor

Master David Dillon

7th Dan Black Belt Senior Instructor BMABA Accredited

Master David Dillon is the son of Grand Master Ed Dillon and brings an extraordinary combination of technical brilliance and natural teaching ability to Genjitsu. Holding a 7th Dan Black Belt, David has trained under his father since childhood and has developed his own distinctive style as an instructor.

David connects particularly well with younger students and has a genuine talent for making complex techniques accessible and engaging. His approach is energetic, encouraging and always focused on bringing out the best in every student.

Together, the Dillons represent something rare: a father-and-son team who have dedicated their lives to martial arts and to the community they serve. This family bond is at the heart of what makes Genjitsu so special.

"Every student who walks through our door is unique. My job is to find what drives them and help them go further than they thought they could."
— Master David Dillon
Train Under Master Dillon
Why It Matters

The Quality of Your Instruction Defines Your Progress

In martial arts, the quality of the instructor makes all the difference. At Genjitsu, you train under instructors who have spent decades not just practising, but perfecting the art of teaching.

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Combined 15th Dan

Grand Master Ed (8th Dan) and Master David (7th Dan) bring a combined 15th Dan of expertise to every session.

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30+ Years Teaching

Over three decades of refining the art of instruction, knowing how to get results from every type of student.

Fully Accredited

All instructors hold current BMABA accreditation and first aid qualifications, ensuring the highest safety standards.

The Full Team

Our Wider Instructor Team

Alongside our founders, Genjitsu is supported by a team of dedicated, highly-qualified instructors, each bringing their own specialisms and passion for teaching.

Master Neil Challanger Photo
5th Dan Black Belt

Master Neil Challanger

Instructor, Mellor Club Lead

Fast, powerful and precise, Master Challanger has studied Genjitsu for 18 years and is a formidable sparring partner. A patient and technically excellent teacher, he leads the Mellor club in the Ribble Valley.

Master Liam Thornton Photo
4th Dan Black Belt

Master Liam Thornton

Instructor, Grappling Specialist

A highly skilled grappler, Master Thornton specialises in Ground Work, Throwing and Submissions. His technical knowledge of close-quarters combat makes him an invaluable addition to the Genjitsu team.

Master Christine Dillon Photo
4th Dan Black Belt

Master Christine Dillon

Instructor, Ladies & Juniors Classes

Known for her powerful kicks and strikes, Master Christine Dillon leads the Ladies Classes and brings exceptional dedication to both junior and senior training. An inspiring presence in every session she teaches.

Master Kieran McLaughlin Photo
4th Dan Black Belt

Master Kieran McLaughlin

Instructor, Darwen Club

Master McLaughlin's story is an inspiration, he began training in Genjitsu at the age of 50 and has since earned his 4th Dan. Renowned for his fast hands, great footwork and love of sparring, he is proof it's never too late to begin.

Sensei Tony Fairhurst Photo
2nd Dan Black Belt

Sensei Tony Fairhurst

Instructor, Sparring & Ground Work

Sensei Fairhurst brings exceptional knowledge of sparring and ground work, excelling in speed, movement, flexibility and balance. A dependable, skilled instructor with a genuine passion for developing students at every level.

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