Last updated 09:50, Friday, 15 August 2008

TIPS on how to put martial arts training into practical self defence is being offered in Hexham – for free.

And there’s no need to shell out on white pyjamas and fancy belts for the training – it’s done in every day clothes.

For the past month, Jeff Lee of the Black Dragons martial arts club has been running the sessions on the Sele.

Jeff said: “The beauty of training outside is because outside is normally where an assault takes place.

“It doesn’t happen in a dojo or sports hall, where the environment is known.

“It gets more real and you get a feel and the mind set needed for street combat.”

Skills taught are from kick/thai boxing, military combat – in fact whatever works.

Dave Wells 2nd Dan has just been to New York refining his Jail House Rock skills with renowned 52 Block Instructor Lite Burley trainer of UFC Fighters.

The training also involves stamina and flexibility exercises for men and women over 16 who want to train.”

The free sessions take place every Tuesday from 7- 8.30pm.