Karate film star proves a big hit

HE'S one of China's most highly-regarded Kung Fu masters and was selected by Jackie Chan himself to star in the new Karate Kid movie.

But Yuan Xiu Gang took some time out from his busy schedule yesterday to show dozens of pupils at an Edinburgh school his moves.

The 40-year-old Daoist Priest is visiting the Capital as part of his first trip to Europe.

Master Yuan, who has his own internal Kung Fu school at the world-famous Wudang Mountain Academy in China, took around 150 fifth and sixth-year pupils at St Thomas of Aquin's High School for a class in Qi Gong.

The Chinese Kung Fu and TaiJi master said: "The students here were interested and they really enjoyed the class - they got so excited."

The father-of-three began training aged just seven.

In 1991, he went to Wudang Mountain - the renowned centre of Daoism and internal martial arts.

Master Yuan was accepted as a disciple by the great Master Zhong Yun Long and, since then, he has been practising martial arts such as TaiJi, Qi Gong, XingYi, BaGua and meditation.

Rachael Dunsmore, 27, from Haymarket, a student of Master Yuan's for the last two years, said: "Qi Gong is where you work to strengthen the ligaments and tendons, and open the joints.

"Master Yuan also did a beautiful demonstration of TaiJi, which all the students thought was really amazing.

"He was amazed at how stiff the kids are, but that's because of our lifestyle here.

"This is a real opportunity for people to get their bodies and minds in shape."

Master Yuan, who gave a public talk at St John's Church last night, will hold another class at Craigroyston Community High School on Monday.

Pupil Andy Jack, 17, said: "Master Yuan's understanding of the relationship between our minds and our bodies is really profound."

Master Yuan added: "Jackie Chan taught me how to face the camera. We worked a little bit together. This was my first film but I don't think I would be a good actor."

Victor Spence, general secretary of Edinburgh Interfaith Association, added: "In relation to our sizable Chinese community here in Edinburgh, this will give people a better understanding and insight into the religious, philosophical and spiritual life of many of our Chinese neighbours."

Master Yuan added: "Edinburgh is a really beautiful city."