I am saddened to inform our Ryōi Shintō-ryū family that early practitioner of Ryōi Shintō-ryū Jūjutsu practitioner - Robin Stilllman, passed away (aged 87) last month.

I remember Robin starting training (some time around about 1978) and he had remained a true friend since that time.

Robin personified all of the finest qualities of a true gentleman and martial artist. Throughout his life he had a positive effect on the people he met.

As such, it is my honour, as current head of the Ryōishintōkai, to posthumously promote Robin Stillman to Hachidan (段八 8th Dan).

I have discussed this with his sons Colin and Peter, who have inherited his excellent qualities and it is with their agreement, that I am making this award.

I have included some pictures of Robin from a course taught by our superb teacher, the late James Shortt Sensei, during the late 1970s / early 1980s. These were take by another Ryōi Shintō-ryū stalwart and great training friend Les Cathery.

(The young guy sitting against the wall is me.)