Meet the Instructors
At Kensho Karate, we take pride in the calibre and dedication of our instructors. Together, our team brings over 100 years of karate experience and an enduring commitment to sharing their knowledge, supporting students, and fostering a vibrant martial arts community.
Lee Lamb (5th Dan) - Founder and Chief Instructor
Lee began training in martial arts at age 9 at Gateshead Leisure Centre. Over a 31-year career, he achieved significant milestones, earning his 1st Dan black belt at 12 and joining the KUGB National England squad, where his competitive drive flourished. Lee’s accomplishments include the 2008 Commonwealth Kata Gold, 2008 WKF World Cup Kumite Champion, and becoming a double World and double European Champion in Kata at WUKF events in 2022. His dedication and expertise continue to motivate those around him.
John Gough (3rd Dan)
In 2010, John began his karate journey, inspired by a conversation with Sensei Lee. Initially focused solely on fitness and with no interest in grading or competition, his perspective evolved significantly over time. He now holds a 3rd Dan black belt and competes in the Veterans category at both national and international levels. Beyond karate, John maintains an active lifestyle through pursuits such as gym training, and yoga, demonstrating a commitment to personal growth and well-being.
Jonny Gough Jnr (3rd Dan)
Jonny began karate at age 5, drawn to the welcoming atmosphere at Kensho. By 9, he had earned his 1st Dan, and in 2015 joined the JKS England squad, where he excelled in competition. Representing JKS at the 2016 World Championships, he secured a team kata gold medal and continued to achieve success after Kensho formed SEKA, competing at World and European levels.
Jonny has contributed 7 yrs to Kensho as an instructor, mentoring younger students. Among his notable milestones are earning his 3rd Dan in 2022 alongside his father, John Snr, and becoming a two-time European Champion in short weapons Kobudo—a discipline in which he is self-taught. Jonny’s ongoing commitment and expertise make him a valued member of the Kensho community.
Kate Bell (2nd Dan)
Kate began her karate journey at Kensho at age 10 and returned in 2021 after an 11-year break. A former National kata champion under WKF as a junior, she has since earned multiple National, European, and World titles in senior kata category within WUKF tournaments.
Now Head Kata Coach for the SEKA England squad, Kate also leads our weekly junior brown and black belt class. Her expertise, dedication, and resilience—managing both a full-time job and a chronic autoimmune condition—make her a powerful role model. She continues to inspire the next generation of female karateka to pursue excellence.
Theo Sharp (2nd Dan)
Theo began his karate journey in 2009 and has remained dedicated to training ever since. His passion and commitment quickly led him into competitive karate, where he has achieved significant success on both national and international stages.
In 2013, Theo earned a bronze medal at the European Karate Championships, marking the beginning of a decorated competitive career. He was awarded his 1st Dan black belt in 2015, demonstrating his technical skill and discipline.
Over the years, Theo has competed in numerous European and World Karate Championships, consistently earning medals. His most notable achievement came in 2023, when he won gold at the European Karate Championships, solidifying his status as a top-level karateka.
With over a decade of experience, Theo brings both competitive excellence and deep technical knowledge to every class and is the. Now Head Kumite Coach for the SEKA England squad, he is passionate about helping students grow in skill, confidence, and discipline through traditional karate.
Elle Smith (2nd Dan)
Elle began karate at age 9 and quickly developed a passion for the discipline. By 11, she was competing at local and national levels, gradually advancing to European championships. In 2021, Elle achieved her 2nd Dan black belt, demonstrating her dedication to both kata and kumite. Since joining Kensho in November 2023, she has progressed rapidly, earning a position as an instructor and becoming an integral part of the community.
Marian Allan (2nd Dan)
Marian began training in karate in 2010 under Sensei Lee Lamb, quickly developing a passion for Kata. Over the years, Marian has embraced both competitive and instructional roles, currently leading Kensho Karate classes at David Lloyd, Gateshead. Outside the dojo, Marian works full-time as a support worker and enjoys travelling. Notably, Marian secured a silver medal at the Ryukyu International Open in April 2024, reflecting ongoing dedication to the discipline.