Kung Fu Master's Legacy Lives On in Liverpool

In 1975, Master Jimmy Chan established the Liverpool Hung Gar Kung Fu Club, realizing a dream he'd held since childhood. He started the club in a modest Liverpool Chinatown restaurant, pushing tables aside for training sessions. Chan, who arrived from Hong Kong ten years prior, worked in local factories and casinos before dedicating himself to teaching Kung Fu.

After Master Chan's death in 1989, Stephen Ornellas, a devoted student, took over the club's leadership. Ornellas, who joined the club at 17, continues to uphold Chan's vision, promoting Chinese culture and the art of Kung Fu. The club, with over 120 members, actively participates in community events, including Chinese New Year celebrations and school displays.

Liverpool's Chinatown, one of Europe's oldest, provided a welcoming community for immigrants like Chan, many of whom arrived via the Blue Funnel Line. Ornellas has been recognized for his contributions, receiving awards for his dedication to charity and the preservation of Chinese martial arts in Liverpool. He strives to honor his mentor's legacy, ensuring the club remains a vibrant part of the community.