Why did you decide to commit to Sensei Riley and the White Rose?

Sensei Heseltine:

I had been practicing aikido in Durham with Sensei Arthur Lockyear following Chiba Sensei for quite a few years and had achieved the grade of Shodan. In this time I would try to go to any course that I could get to. travelling to London , Birmingham and all the far away places that you had to go to in those days to get to see the main Sensei's.

In the process of travelling around I bumped into loads of like minded people some of which became good friends and would meet up at different places. A certain group stood out from the others and would give me a sound thrashing whenever I saw them. I started to visit them more and more whenever they held their courses and was really impressed with their practical style and no nonsense attitude, lack of politics and friendly atmosphere. When I decided to come away from Sensei Lockyear, Sensei Riley who by this time was a very good friend very kindly allowed me to practice under the White Rose and helped me to form my own club in Durham

What was it like in the early days with Sensei Riley and do you think he has changed over the years. If so Why?

Sensei Heseltine:

Everyone changes in some way or other he has a lot more tattoos for a start. Ha ha. In all the years I have known him his commitment and professionalism in his aikido has always impressed me, in that, I do not think he has changed. Obviously the way in which we practice has changed as you would hope it would after so many years, still with the emphasis on practical.

What effect has Sensei Riley had on your Aikido?

Sensei Heseltine:

A profound affect. What can I say ?

With the utmost respect, do you see a difference in Sensei Riley's students and your own students with regard technique?

Sensei Heseltine:

You will find differences in students who only practice with Sensei so obviously you will see differences with people who practice with other people. However I do try to put the effort in to keep up with the teachings of the White Rose Aikikai and ultimately Sensei Riley. We are very different sizes and Sensei will show me variations to use which may suit me better.

A quote from Sensei. We are not his clones so he does not expect us to be exactly alike.