Gym aims to divert young people from knife crime

Peter Martin has set up his new gym on Britten Street in Redditch

The owner of a new martial arts gym in Redditch is aiming to help young people avoid getting involved in knife crime.

Pete Martin, of the Redditch Self Defence Association, has been training adults and children for more than 30 years.

His new facility, which is also a community centre, has been opened on Britten Street.

"Providing a safe place for young people to go and get involved in something positive is really important for their wellbeing and making Redditch a better safer place to live," Mr Martin said.

The new venue is intended to provide lots of services to the area, including hosting anti knife crime sessions, community events and support for witnesses and victims of crime.

Mr Martin received one of the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Points of Light Award in 2023 after providing free classes to vulnerable, disadvantaged and young people in danger of offending.

'Changed my personality'

The martial arts coach and his team made contact with 11,500 young people in the same year and the sessions will continue at the new facility.

"We work closely with local police to be able to support children and young people in most need," he said.

One of the beneficiaries his classes is Sara Shirley, 13, from Redditch, who told BBC Hereford & Worcester she has had a new lease of life.

"It has changed my personality, I have been more open to people and more outgoing in school and outside," she said.

"Fitness-wise. I feel less self conscious and I feel like I can go outside without worrying about my body image."

Rachel Maclean, Redditch's MP, described Mr Martin as a "local legend".

She said: "Pete... has driven so much good for the community here and I can see this will become a platform for him to expand and help even more people."

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