Martial arts expert teaches pensioners how to turn their walking sticks into weapons

A martial arts expert has set up special walking stick self-defence classes.

Judo and karate black belt Kevin Garwood, 58, is teaching his elderly students how to transform the humble walking stick from a symbol of old age or disability into a weapon to boost self-confidence.

And his lessons have already paid off after an old woman fought off two thugs who tried to mug her.



Kevin, of Gorleston, near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, is showing people how to use the walking stick to fight back instead of specialist oriental fighting sticks, staffs or nunchuks.

He currently teaches three walking stick self-defence classes a week and aims to start more sessions this year.

Kevin said: "What I am not trying to do is make grey-haired ninjas or have people twitching and always looking over their shoulders. What it does is give them tremendous confidence."

I think I prefer this.