Free self-defence classes launched in Guernsey

Boxing instructors are taking part in the scheme

Free self-defence classes are being offered in Guernsey in the spring as part of a charity drive to protect people from physical assaults.

The one-hour sessions, organised by charity SafetyNet, will run between March and May.

It was hoped the lessons would equip almost 100 islanders with "invaluable" skills needed to defend themselves, project bosses said.

SafetyNet chairwoman Poppy Murray said she hoped "no-one will ever need to use the training", but that the sessions "will undoubtedly boost confidence for the participants".

'Demand was clear'

She added they would "help to prepare them should they ever find themselves in danger”.

The free classes are being set up thanks to a donation from trust management company Saffery Trust.

The project has come after some islanders told the charity they could not afford classes.

Ms Murray said: “We ran a poll on our social media pages to gauge whether there would be any interest in self-defence classes locally and the response was overwhelming.

"The demand was clear. However, we had a few messages that the cost of classes would be a barrier for some.

She said Saffery Trust's donation was "in support of our aims, [and] will make a huge difference".

Island training Jimmy Lesbirel is looking forward to giving back to the community

Boxing personal trainer Jimmy Lesbirel, who runs the JackalBoxFit gym, said he was looking forward leading sessions.

He said: “When SafetyNet approached me about running the classes, I was more than happy to help because it’s important to me to give back, especially in a small community like ours.”

SafetyNet was set up in October with the aim to educate the public, deter perpetrators of crime and support victims.

Saffery Trust managing director Nick Batiste said: “We are delighted to support this initiative and are dedicated to promoting the health and wellbeing of our people and the wider community.

"These classes will help to do just that.”

The classes are open to anyone aged 16 or over and will be held at Rock Health, Victoria Avenue, with pre-booking required.