22/03/2026
Holy sh*te the martial arts legends are dying off.
Bringing real combat back into karate was a gift Peter gave.
Over 30 years as security his unarmed combat systems always pushed forward. The depth of understanding of ‘how street combat actually happens’ was spread to many students and the British Combat Association became a world leader.
Chuck now Peter… some of the new old masters are dying.
Very sad.
It is with the greatest possible sorrow that we share with you the news that Peter Consterdine died in the early hours of Thursday morning, with Dawn at his side. He was greatly unimpressed with the acceleration of his illness and has left us all far earlier than he would have chosen; indeed, someone of such strength and character would have seemed invincible, so his death does come as a shock.
As members of the association, you all know that his legacy will truly make him immortal. In due course, we will write a suitable account of the huge impact he has had on our community and beyond. This is not that time – everyone needs time to absorb this news and to process it – especially Dawn and those closest to Peter.
We deeply appreciate the respectful ‘holding back’ from many of you as you awaited official word of his passing. With someone of his stature, you can understand that such terrible news spread quickly and many did not know that there had not been time to pass on the news sensitively and personally to his family and friends who should not be learning such news through social media. We will be inviting memories and tributes on the BCA/BCKA/WCA pages in due course and naturally will be providing a more extensive narrative of his phenomenal achievements and influence.
It will soon be business as usual in the office, with the great team Peter built over many decades providing continuity and support for you all. The senior instructor team, club instructors and individual members will continue Peter’s unparalleled influence and legacy. Thanks to all of Peter’s work and dedication, The Combat Group is, and will remain, a unique and unsurpassed martial arts and self-defence collective. We will be back in touch soon and thank you all for your support at this most difficult of times.
Iain and Mary Abernethy (on behalf of Dawn Consterdine)
