Women’s only martial arts sessions, include skills on how to defend against knife attacks has launched in Darwen.

The sessions are being led by Sensei Crystal Garth and Sifu Siân Garth who said they had been asked to share their skills by other women in the area.

Sensei Crystal Garth specialises in kickboxing and fitness whilst Sifu Siân Garth specialises in free style kung-fu with a mixture of Wing-Chun, Tai Chi, Jeet Kune Do, grappling, weapons training and knife defences.

Between them they have 50 years of experience are hoping to encourage more woman to join martial arts and build a school where women can 'feel comfortable training and get fit'. 

The sessions are open to those aged 16 and over.

Sensei Crystal trains at Phoenix Kickboxing Academy and Sifu Sian at Darwen School of Kung-Fu.

Sian-Marie said: “The ladies kickboxing and martial arts sessions are part of Darwen School of Kung Fu and it all started because we kept getting asked about woman’s only sessions.

“The club is a non-profit organisation which means we teach voluntarily for the love of the arts.

“We are passionate about sharing our knowledge we have obtained over  many years of training.

"We want create a positive impact on the community as it is rare to have female martial arts instructors teaching as it’s quite male dominated. With guidance and support from Master Ray Heeks we have made it achievable.

“Martial arts can increase confidence, help with depression and anxiety and most of all one day it may even save your life.”

Sessions are £3.80 (if paid monthly) and £4 if you opt for per as you go and open to al. They will take place at Darwen Valley Community Centre.

Find out more on their Facebook page here