A SENIOR Kent police officer was given a friendly welcome but also wrestled to the floor when he presented a donation to a sports club.

Ch Insp Peter Wedlake gave Rainham Judo Club £400 to help the club repair their building.

Medway Police are giving £2,400 to worthy causes, from the Police Property Fund.

The deputy area commander presented a cheque to the club’s organiser, Terry Malkinson before taking to the mat with instructor John Malkinson.

Ch Insp Wedlake has quite a bit of experience of martial arts. As a youngster he was a black belt in jui jitsu and a green belt in judo.

He said: “I am a strong supporter of local clubs like this one because it is so good for children. I know from personal experience that judo is a wonderful sport, which makes you friends and teaches you about yourself, and life in general. All of the instructors are unpaid volunteers, for which they have my respect.”

Other groups and organisations in the Medway area set to receive £400 are:

* Medway Women’s Support Service who will use the money to provide support including transport to victims of domestic violence.

* Walderslade Girl Guides who will spend the money on new equipment.

* Woodies Youth Centre, open to young people aged 10 to 16 years. They needed more games to play.

* 26th Medway Scout Group who are raising money for more equipment for camping trips.

* Chatham Riverside FC, the boys’ football club, who need the money for new kit.