AN INSTRUCTOR in martial arts has pledged to help keep youngsters off the streets of Oswaldtwistle by setting up classes to keep them entertained.

And his idea has been backed by police officers in the area who aim to inform kids of his plan when they carry out their patrols.

Gary Smith, 28, of Kestrel Terrace, was shocked at the number of children he saw regularly hanging around.

Now he is hoping that by laying on the classes he will be able to tempt teenagers away from the streets and into a sport. Kick-boxing instructor Gary said: "I went to the shops with my girlfriend one night and streets were littered with kids.

"They were a bit drunk and I just thought, I don't remember it being like that when I was younger. I decided to open something in Oswaldtwistle so these kids have got something to do."

Police officers in Oswaldtwistle are keen to work with Gary, and when officers are patrolling, any children they feel might be interested in the sport will be given information on the classes.

The move is part of the police's Network scheme, involving working with different groups in the area to offer children alternative activities.

Police Community Support Officer Andy Banks, who patrols Oswaldtwistle, said: "It's an excellent way to channel young people's energy into a sport."

So far classes have been offered for only a number of days, but Gary, who works as a fabricator making windows and conservatories, is keen to get youngsters involved. He is running the adult and junior classes with friends Keiran and Julie Sowerbutts, at the Hippings Vale Community Centre in Harvey Street.

He said: "We've had a few groups of kids come to the doors and have a look what is going on and they all seemed interested.

"It isn't there to make a profit. Whatever profits come in go back into buying equipment and things. It has never been about the money - it's just my love of the sport."