YOUNGSTERS will be put through their paces as they learn the art of self defence in new ju jutsu classes at Kidderminster's Glades Leisure Centre.

The lessons will be taught by Robert Tiene, who has more than 20 years' experience of the Japanese martial art.

Children who attend the classes will look at the life skills that ju jutsu can offer and will learn how to deal with attacks from behind.

Mr Tiene said: "This is the first class I will be running in Kidderminster. At the moment I'm working at Comberton Primary School doing taster sessions for the children.

"It's the next step for them to have a club so they can see the benefits that clubs have, such as competitions."

The 35-year-old is a fifth degree black belt and has been teaching for more than 10 years.

He said: "In this day and age, it's important for children to learn self defence. In schools, children are told to keep away from people they don't know. But it's also vital for them to have knowledge of self defence.

"If children have someone trying to take them away, I think it's important that they know how to deal with that situation so they have a chance to defend themselves."

Mr Tiene will be offering a free trial lesson. The lessons start on Wednesday and will run every Wednesday after that. They will run from 5.30pm until 6.30pm.

Further information about the classes can be obtained by contacting Mr Tiene, on 07887 686401 or by logging onto www.robtjk.co.uk