The Leicester Fencing Club originated from a merger between the Huncote FC and the Granby Halls FC in June 1989. The club was then known as the Granby Hall FC until it was no longer possible to continue fencing at the venue.

Both Steve Wright (President of LFC) and Jim Amberton had gone to Alderman Newton school at what is now Leicester Grammar School, Peacock Lane. They approached the headmaster to see whether to have fencing again on the site. Allowing his pupils free coaching, the club moved venue to the school premises. As the Club grew in size it was decided that we would have to find a larger venue.

The City of Leicester School in Evington formally Leicester City Grammar School for Boys) already had a history of fencing there, so the club moved again in 1992 and due to the change of venue a new name was required. CLUB ‘X’ was suggested but was thrown out for being too silly and finally the Leicester Fencing Club emerged from the ashes.

The Deputy Head Master of the School (Alan Rudge, President EM Region) supported the move and growth of the Club at the School.

We continued fencing there for five years but again had to move this time due to security reasons. Another venue was sought and we approached Aylestone Leisure Centre. They accepted us with open arms and the rest has been, as they say, history.

The club not only looks after Foil, the club’s main weapon, but now Sabre and Epee are coached.

The club provides beginner groups for youth and adults which are structured to the British Academy of Fencing’s Award Scheme. It boasts one of the highest qualified coaches in the East Midlands as well as a County Sabre Coach and assistant Coaches who look after the large groups who attend the only club within the city boundary.

The Granby Fencing Club (now the Leicester Fencing Club) was formed by Jim Amberton who passed away in 2006.