Dave has been training in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu since 1989. Starting in Germany while serving with the British Army, and continuing on return to the UK . He opened Bujinkan Newbury Dojo in 2004.

 

In 2009 he went with Marc Moor sensei of Budo Warrior Schools to Japan where he was put forward for the saaki test, on the 8th September 2009; which was conducted by Noguchi sensei in the presence of Soke Hatsumi in the Tokyo Budokan. On passing he was awarded his 5th Dan (Godan) and teachers licence (Shidoshi). In November 2014 Dave was awarded Martial Arts Illustrated Hall of Fame 'Top Exponent' award.

In April 2016 he was recommended for Judan (10th dan) by senior instuctors in Japan - Shiriashi sensei, Noguchi sensei, Paul Masse sensei and this was supported by Dai Shihan Peter King and Marc Moor sensei in the UK. Soke Hatsumi awarded him Judan on these recommendations.

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In May 2018 he was awarded Kugyo Happo Biken (commonly known as Juudan Kugyou or 15th dan) by Soke Hatsumi. This is one of the highest grades in the Bujinkan and is considered both an honour, and a responsibility to carry the spirit of the Bujinkan forward.