AN OLYMPIC fencing ace from Hungary is thrusting ahead with plans to make the sport popular in Bury.

When Robert Kiss retired from the sport after competing in Barcelona in 1992 and Atlanta four years later, he decided to look for a new challenge.

He found one when he heard that the British Fencing Association were looking for new coaches to make British fencing more successful.

While Hungary has won 36 Olympic gold medals, Britain has only ever won one.

Robert (33) of Kingsley Street, Elton, was offered a job coaching and promoting the sport across the North West and moved to Bury with girlfriend Natalia Gyuricksa, because of its central location. He said: "Fencing in this country needs some help, it's a big challenge but I would like to improve the standard here. There is nothing in Bury at the moment and I would like to change that."

With help from Natalia (31), herself a Hungarian champion hurler, Robert made moves to arrange taster sessions in local schools, sending letters to headteachers and sports groups.

He is due to give taster sessions and lessons at Tottington High School and a taster session at St Peter's Primary in Whitefield Road, Bury.

Equipment, including sabres and masks, is made available for the sessions which are organised free of charge.

Currently an instructor in Stalybridge, Robert aims to start a fencing club nearer home in Bury and go on to train new coaches, as well as the disabled.

Inspired to fence by his stepfather, Miklos Meszena, a world champion, Robert said: "The sport is good for keeping fit and it's great fun. You can choose to play in a team or as an individual.

"It's safe and also keeps the mind very fit because it's similar to chess with so many different moves."

Schools, individuals or sports groups interested in fencing should contact Robert on 797 5179.