WITH violent attacks becoming more it's not surprising some women are afraid to walk anywhere alone.

Now, a local man is trying to change all that with self-defence classes aimed at making women feel confident and secure.

Paul Higham runs the weekly classes just for women at Pace Fitness Centre in Boundary Road and says new members are always welcome. The martial arts instructor who has 15 years experience, set up the class after a relative was raped and Paul decided to use his experience to prevent more women falling victim.

He told the Star: "I have been running the classes for six months or so now with a partner John Ainscough and all the women have a great time. We are open to any age, at the moment they range from 14 to 35, but the moves I teach can be done by any woman whatever her fitness level and everyone is welcome to come along and give it a try."

And after learning a new move all the women get the chance to try it out themselves on a heavily-padded up Paul.

One of the regulars who has been attending since the classes began last November told the Star: "I wouldn't miss a session. Not only do you have a laugh and meet new people, but the self defence lessons really boost your confidence."

The class meet every Sunday at Pace from noon to 1pm. The cost is £3.50 per week with concessions of £2.50 if you are already a member of Pace. Women who fancy giving it a try can contact the Pace Fitness Centre for more details on St Helens 730031.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.